From Employee to Leader: The Journey in 5 Steps

Let's start today's conversation with a question: Have you ever gotten to a point in life, especially in your career, where you want something more? That point where you begin to ask yourself 'What's next??

This simple but deep question might take days and sometimes months to figure out and honestly, you may not even know where to start from. Let me tell you this: you are not alone; I was once there.?

Many professionals get to that point where they feel like they are ready for that big leap and transition in their careers. This shift is more than getting a promotion, it's a shift from being ordinary to extraordinary. It's a journey of transformation that requires your intention, growth, and a lot of self-discovery.

You need to develop a new mindset, build quality relationships, and develop the skills that are essential to your next level of growth.

In this edition of "Leading With Precision", we’ll explore five critical steps to help you make that transition from being just an employee to a leader in your career journey.?

?Step 1: The Mindset Shift

The very first step is cultivating a leadership mindset. Regardless of your current job role or description, start seeing yourself as a leader. Let your mindset reflect in your actions; start thinking strategically when approaching any project, be proactive, and deliver results.?

Here are some questions you should ponder on;?

1. What can I do right now to start thinking and acting like a leader??

2. How do I approach work? Am I proactive or reactive??

3. How do I relate with my colleagues? Do I inspire or motivate them to deliver results??

Step 2: Building?Quality Relationships

There is a Congolese proverb that says

'A single bracelet does not jingle.'

Leadership is not a one-man's journey. You need a strong and quality relationship to thrive as a leader. You need to develop the ability to connect genuinely with your colleagues, team members, or your bosses. Engage them in meaningful conversations, be open to collaborate, and offer support. You can't build a thriving career or lead in an environment where you don't have any bond with your colleagues.?

Here are two practical tips;?

1. Identify at least 5 key relationships in your office.?

2. Think of ways to build and strengthen those relationships.

Step 3: Understanding Emotional Dynamics?

Emotional Intelligence (EI) is every leader's secret weapon. It's the ability to perceive, understand, and manage your emotions and those of others. Leaders with high EI control their emotions especially when faced with pressure. They navigate complex situations and position themselves to understand and leverage what is said and not said in the room.?

Follow up on the conversation about Emotional Intelligence in the second edition of our newsletter series.

Step 4:? Continuous Learning

The growth you desire, the next level you want to attain is possible when you realise continuous learning is non-negotiable. Being stagnant or outdated is not an option, you need to constantly seek knowledge to improve and progress. You need to keep updating your skills, your experience, and knowledge bank. To be a leader, you must be a learner. You can learn in various ways such as reading, listening to feedback, being attentive, learning new skills, etc. Commit yourself to learning something new every day.?

Step 5: Walk the Talk

Lastly, leadership is not just in words but in action. Setting a standard and staying true to it. Your actions reflect what you stand for, your values, and what you want others to see and emulate. You easily earn the respect and position yourself for growth when you reflect all you say.?

Think about your actions: do they align with your next level of growth? Do they reflect the leadership qualities you value??

The transition from an employee to a leader is challenging but rewarding. If you aspire to be a leader or you are simply reflecting on your career journey these 5 practical steps will position you to lead with purpose, precision, and confidence.?

If you haven't read my book, 'The Precision-Led Woman' ? now is the perfect time to grab your copy and start reading. Don't forget you can also subscribe and connect with me on my YouTube channel , where I share practical insights on leadership, career, and personal development.?

See you next Tuesday!

Victoria Ajayi.