You want to be seen as a leader in your organization. What are you doing to make it happen?

1 Align your goals

The first step to becoming a leader is to understand the vision, mission, and objectives of your organization and align your own goals and actions with them. This will help you communicate your value and contribution to the stakeholders, as well as identify the gaps and opportunities for improvement. You can also use the SMART framework to set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals for yourself and your team.

2 Build your network

A leader is someone who can connect with people across different levels, functions, and backgrounds, and leverage their expertise, insights, and resources. You can build your network by attending events, joining communities, and reaching out to mentors and peers in your field. You can also offer your help, feedback, and recognition to others, and establish trust and rapport. Networking is not only useful for finding new opportunities, but also for learning from others and sharing your knowledge.

3 Showcase your skills

A leader is someone who can demonstrate their skills and competencies in various situations and challenges. You can showcase your skills by taking on new responsibilities, leading initiatives, or volunteering for projects that align with your interests and strengths. You can also highlight your skills by creating a portfolio, publishing your work, or presenting at conferences and workshops. Showcasing your skills will help you gain visibility, credibility, and recognition in your organization and beyond.

4 Develop your team

A leader is someone who can empower and inspire others to achieve their potential and goals. You can develop your team by providing clear direction, guidance, and feedback, as well as creating a supportive and collaborative environment. You can also encourage your team members to take ownership, learn new skills, and pursue their passions. Developing your team will help you foster a culture of innovation, excellence, and diversity in your organization.

5 Learn continuously

A leader is someone who can adapt and grow in a changing and competitive world. You can learn continuously by seeking feedback, reflecting on your performance, and identifying your strengths and weaknesses. You can also pursue formal or informal education, such as courses, certifications, or online resources, to update your knowledge and skills. Learning continuously will help you enhance your expertise, broaden your perspective, and stay relevant in your field.

6 Lead by example

A leader is someone who can influence and motivate others by their actions and behaviors. You can lead by example by embodying the values, standards, and ethics of your organization, as well as the best practices of research management. You can also model the skills and attitudes that you expect from others, such as curiosity, creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. Leading by example will help you create a positive and lasting impact on your organization and your field.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?