I have a question for you.
What does it take to become a Leader?
It’s been on my mind quite a bit lately. Have you ever really thought about it? I sure have.
One of the thoughts that comes up for me most often when I consider leading others is the sense of responsibility – they aren’t trusting me and choosing me as their coach because they enjoy the colors of my website.
I have worked diligently to become a leader both in my work and in my business. I didn’t slap the title on my email and start – I climbed and worked and learned. I worked in the real-deal Corporate America. I got the education, completed the courses and earned the certifications.
But… what type of experience creates success?
I have a proven track record of success. Not only do I have a combined 18 years of experience working for Fortune 500 companies, but I also earned Business Degree from Pepperdine University – and studied Management.
During my time in Corporate America, I was responsible for some of the company’s largest accounts – including one that generated $7 million consistently in monthly revenue. I managed teams that became top-producers within the company. These teams were referred to as the ones to beat, by the competition.
And while I’m proud of all of those qualifications, I’ve also learned that it takes more to be an effective leader. A lot more.
It takes someone with courage to step up and have the hard conversations (you know the ones), to make the difficult decisions. It takes a team player to roll up their sleeves and do the work that no one wants to do – like sitting on the floor in an office stuffing envelopes at 2am.
A leader doesn’t avoid the hard work. A leader takes action. A leader doesn’t blame or avoid confrontation. A leader takes responsibility, reassesses objectively and makes changes to improve the situation.
A leader sets the example through consistent actions and words. A leader doesn’t placate, hide or copy others. A leader asks questions, listens to the market and leads with integrity.
That’s the real message: if you really want to be a successful leader – develop the skills, learn the tools and step up to be a VIP. Because, yes – it truly is that simple.
