Great Leadership
Great leadership requires discipline, hard work, and the ability to network. When it comes to acquiring leadership skills, discipline is an important characteristic. People look up to leaders that are focused and communicates with purpose. It means possessing a vision and then working hard towards achieving that goal. Leaders that are not disciplined, aimlessly walk around the office without a long term vision and end up falling short of reaching a desired outcome. A leader must be prepared to welcome any new opportunities that are outside their personal or operational networks and then set out to align that opportunity with the companies vision. When leaders are focused, strategic, and have a sense of direction, they are able to welcome changes and pivot more easily.
Great leaders are made and not born. They work hard to climb the ladder to attain their worth. They struggle and overcome obstacles because they know that it is hard work that will allow them to eventually reach their goals. While some leaders lose confidence during a setback, effective leaders learn from their anxieties, setbacks, and previous experiences. They progress and move forward with firmness to tackle obstacles that come their way. They know that part of great leadership is to get people to think, believe, see, and do what others may not have done without their presence.
Great leaders develop strategic partners. They extend their networks beyond their personal networks. Their strategic network involves people that can help encompass a vision for the future. It provides connective advantage to help gather resources to allow them to intersect. Great leaders want to involve people that will allow them to gain a birds eye view. Poor leaders try to work with people that have a set of narrow views while effective leaders travel, network, and seek advice from people that are not necessarily involved in their profession.
How can you become and effective leader?
Network with 3 people that are outside your current sphere of influence. Look through your Linkedin messages and reply to people that are trying to do the same thing. Ask questions and get to know one another. If you don't have any messages from someone trying to connect outside your current network, then message / connect with someone outside your network. You can also attend events that will allow for an outsiders perspective.
The Different Networks
Personal networks are networks that involve family and friends. These networks are typical on Facebook. Personal networks doesn't have to be made on social media. While it is important to have a great personal network, these networks doesn't typically lead to growth initiatives.
Operational networks involve employees and people at the company level. These networks are discovered at the place of employment. While operational networks are important to help gain experience and exposure, it does not allow for a bird's eye perspective.
Strategic networks are the networks of great leaders. They network with people that are outside their personal and operational networks. It allows leaders to know that change is coming and how to best prepare. Leaders are given a birds eye view of their industry. The only way to realize that strategic networking is one of the most important requirements of becoming a great leader is to act now and start building your strategic network.