A virtual knighting for those who would accept it.

Not that I have any authority over anyone, what I do have is story of a young engineer I worked with which was 18 months into his career out of college.

He told me his manager was asking him to help on a project.  I told him that his manager needed him to take the lead on this project, that he was the subject matter expert and to develop it as if it were his own company and he had to fund it with his money.

The other thing I told him was, at any time he needed my assistance, all he had to do was ask.  Young professionals have a hard time asking for help, it's good to go ask them if there's anything keeping them from accomplishing their task.

A few months later he had completed the project in record time and launched the tool successfully out into the market.

When we enter the professional work force fresh out of school we have everyone telling us what to do.  At some point we need to be "knighted" and told now you have the tools you need, take a leadership role and own it.

For some of use that never really happens so we end up in this never ending cycle of being "managed".  No one wants to be managed, we want to be lead, and empowered.

So, if you'll accept it, here's my virtual "knighting" for those who wish to break the cycle and want to start leading.  I knight you, "sword tap on shoulder", you are empowered to be the subject matter expert and start leading in your field.

Half the battle is in your mind. Start small and as you start taking on responsibilities, task, etc. your manager will start building confidence in you and let you lead. 

If this article helped you please like and share, my time as a Talent Manager for a large engineering group was very rewarding and I want to share my experiences with as many people as possible, your support will go a long way. Thanks in advance!