How To Become a Leader at Work

Regardless of age, sex or work position, I am convinced that we all can mold ourselves into leaders.  Though, change can painful and requires certain steps.  Make no mistake – becoming a leader is not easy and it takes time.

 

However, it becomes easier.  How can you start today?  Here are a few tips to mold yourself into a leader in the office:

 

- Build Credibility – Things like integrity and knowledge are going to build credibility around the office.  Begin to conduct yourself in a different manner – always telling the truth and being candid about any problems.

 

- Know Where You Stand Now – Take some self-inventory and be honest about your situation as lying to oneself is tempting, but gets you nowhere.  Write down your role in the company as of today.  Write down what you think others think of you based on their actions, not what’s in your head.

 

- Know Where You Want To Be – If you don’t know where you’re headed, you’re not going to get there.  Be specific and take small steps.  For instance, getting a raise has nothing to do with leadership, though being the person your boss asks to complete tough tasks is.

 

- Buy Into the Program – If you’re not fully on-board with what the organization is trying to do, you’re not going to get in with the “in-crowd” nor are you going to build credibility.  Know where the program is headed and make it a goal to help your employer meet what they are setting out to achieve.

 

- Take Responsibility – You can duck and dodge, but you can’t be a leader at the same time.  Make sure that you take responsibility for your actions and admit when you did something wrong and be recognized when you do things right.  This is the basis of being a leader.

 

In the End

 

While following these 5 steps will help you, know that the only way to become a true leader within any organization is to want to be a leader.  We don’t change overnight, so don’t get discouraged, rather begin to get positive.

 
Ken Sundheim is the CEO of KAS Placement, an executive search firm helping recruit sales and marketing professionals.
 

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