Everyone is a leader 

There is a myth out there in the world that says that unless you have people to lead, you’re not a leader. It’s exasperating to think that so many people believe they can’t be leaders, simply because they haven’t been given people to manage or a leadership title. It’s simply not true and we’re here to show you why.

There are plenty of people out there in the world with fancy titles that include the words ‘Manager’, ‘Chief of …’ ‘Director’ — the roles are endless. But, as Shakespeare had his Juliet say: “What’s in a name?” Anyone can have a fancy title, but if they don’t have the leadership skills to back it up, they let down their team.

Likewise, someone without the title can be a great leader. There are plenty of leadership skills that can be developed outside of a formal role. Think about:

• Listening
• Creativity
• Conflict resolution
• Decision-making
• Empathy
• Humility
• Adaptability
• Authenticity

There’s no reason why those skills can’t be learnt and nurtured outside of a formal leadership role. There are plenty of opportunities to grow and learn these skills in everyday situations, with family and friends but there are also plenty of leadership opportunities that crop up in life. You may not be a manager at work, but you might be the captain of your soccer team or a volunteer at Vinnies in your spare time. All these things, formal and informal, help you to develop leadership skills.

Once you have those skills, what should you do with them?

The first thing is to keep growing — leaders can always improve their skills. Jack Welch, the Chairman and CEO of General Electric, famously said “Before you are a leader, success is about growing yourself. When you become a leader, success is all about growing others.”

The second thing, is to just use your leadership skills. If you’re displaying all the skills and qualities of a great leader, someone will notice. Then, when a leadership opportunity does crop up in your organisation, you won’t be passed over by decision-makers and you’ll be prepared to take the role on.

Are you ready to develop your leadership skills? People Make the Difference can help. To find out more, visit www.pmtd.com.au or call us on 0412 333 415. Try our online leadership training videos – $99 for complete access. Great value if you’re committed to growing your leadership potential.