'All wins depend upon proper preparation.'
Prepare for the Leadership Challenge
Who Am I?
It's critical to self-examine oneself before applying for a new job or starting a business to uncover 'who am I?' Most people undergo experiences they wish never happened, but when we contemplate the underlying lessons, they serve us well for improving and upping 'our game.'
Accordingly, it's wise to commit to what we 'wish to achieve,' why others say it's 'impossible,' and what we must do to make it not only possible but also admirable. Underlying this thought, we must also admit to how we differ from most others, plus our strengths and weaknesses. Being truthful with ourselves is the first step in preparing for the leadership challenges.
Whom Do I Want to Be?
Assuming you want to become a known influencer or a top corporate leader, it's wise to consider the leaders you admire in the news and those you distrust to realize the 'why.' Everyday examples are in front of us as we create the model we desire for branding our purpose.
What Am I Missing?
Perfect plans are rare at best or non-existent. Every step of the way, it's vital to review what is in place, what can be improved, what may be outdated, and the necessary research to make future goals your reality. Without the ongoing review, careers and businesses get stale and quitting becomes the only option.
In the bigger picture of life, not embracing that something is missing from one's plan is detrimental to the effort, and the person's regret after quitting becomes a stark reality.
Observe Others in Your Field
While on a job or networking with other entrepreneurs, listening to and observing other people as they speak is wise. For example, do they:
A. Put themselves front and center
B. Dominate the conversation?
C. If you get a minute to speak, do they negate what you say?
D. Is management accepting of all input or righteous on their behalf?
E. Does teamwork exist, and is it inclusive, or are only one or two individuals allowed to share their ideas?
Listen Carefully to Commentary
Listen to the words of the people interviewing you or prospective clients to realize whether there may be commonalities for working together. Should uncertainties or a need for clarification arise, get comfortable asking questions. Opening lines for diplomacy may include, ‘Please explain…’ or ‘What has been your experience?’ Both questions typically lend extra clarity to potentially ask further questions and receive a green light to move forward.
Self-oriented or Servant Leadership?
Sadly, egotistical leadership exists in many places. It's wise to weed out potential employers or clients if possible. The opposite is known as servant leadership, whereby one strives to assist those in one's employ and community and encourages them to step into leadership spots on their own. It's vital to know upfront the type of person you want to work for or with and ask enough questions to realize the answer.
Encouragement
When preparing to step into a leadership role, it's wise to encompass the best of your experiences to lead with heart by encouraging others to succeed. The reward typically is gratitude, followed by referrals and glowing testimonials.
Falsehoods or the Greater Good
‘Trust is the soul of sales and everything else you do.’ Our world is overrun with falsehoods, making it critical to align values and priorities to ensure we always move forward with integrity. A successful business requires that we ‘earn a returning and referring clientele – the Smooth Sale’ but falsehoods will negate all of it.
Conclusion: Will You Prepare for the Leadership Challenge?
On some levels, leadership appears to be easy and will be rightfully yours by embracing a specific process. However, variations come into play along with requirements and personalities. Nothing comes easy, and we must do our due diligence to recognize how to advance our desires respectfully.
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