Leadership - 5 Strategies for Developing and Maintaining Your Leadership Skills

By: Gail Solish
Submitted: 2009-11-19 15:54:49
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In the world today there is an aura of anxiety invading many work environments. People tend to worry about their jobs, the economy and its impact on their company’s viability. Add to the mix whatever personal stresses one might be experiencing on the home front and the potential for burn out increases.

It is therefore important for you to remain focused on developing your leadership skills. These skills are portable and will sustain you where ever you work.

Consider these 5 strategies for developing your leadership potential.

Political Environment

An awareness of the political environment within your company is essential. It is crucial to understanding what is happening and who has the authority to make decisions and changes. The greater your understanding the more you will be able to introduce timely initiatives or respond to changes. At the same time it is important not to get caught up in office politics as it could contribute to your being distracted from relevant issues.

Presentation Style

What is your presentation style? How do you communicate and interact with others? Your awareness of how you come across to others is crucial to your leadership style. Pay attention to what you say and how you say it. Consider taping yourself giving presentations to have a greater sense of your strengths and weaknesses. Ask colleagues for feedback and listen to their comments. Incorporate their suggestions in order to enhance your skills.

Industry Trends

Always keep abreast of what is going on in your industry. You can not operate in isolation. Your awareness of trends and your ability to use the information both in your daily tasks and for future planning indicates that you recognize what your company requires and are able to deliver. This is an important asset for any leader.

Habits and Time Management

Habits are part of life and some positively contribute to the way you do your job and how you manage your time. However it is important to evaluate your habits and recognize those which may be interfering with your being as productive and successful as possible. Perhaps you avoid doing tasks you do not enjoy which contributes to your often having to rush to complete projects. Or maybe you have trouble delegating because you like things to be done a particular way. Take the time to review your habits and set goals for those you may need to change.

Leadership Brand

What is your visibility factor within your department, with your manager and in your company? If you are a competent, hard worker but tend to remain in the background and don’t speak up, you will not be noticed by the people in the company who make the major decisions. You may need to move yourself outside your comfort zone, discover your voice and seek mentors in order to receive the recognition of being a leader.

It is clear that these 5 key strategies will enhance your leadership potential and contribute to your being an asset to your company. Regardless of where or what your job is you will always have these skills.

Copyright 2009, All rights reserved. Gail Solish, MSW is a Communication and Relationship Coach helping people expand their communication skills, develop positive business and personal relationships and create a balanced life. Visit www.actualizeyourgoals.com or email coach@gailsolish.com. Get your Free Report on the 7 Keys to Effective Communication today.

Article source: Expert Articles

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