Raising Your Hand to Lead
If you are currently in a leadership role or led before – whether in a work organization or a community group – you raised your hand for the opportunity, or you were asked if you wanted this challenge. What made you express interest and say yes? Did you ever consider saying no?
We look at a leadership role as a recognition of our accomplishments and capabilities, and it truly is since we usually don’t ask those failing in their jobs to step up for more. It’s tempting to jump right in and sign up for a leadership role if the opportunity presents itself because we wonder…isn’t this what I’m supposed to aspire to? I suggest taking a moment to really consider what is most important to you before you say yes.
I see people falling into four categories when it comes to leadership:
Group 1: These individuals naturally step into leadership roles even when there isn’t a formal role. They love the opportunity to be responsible for other people or projects or groups. They want to help others succeed. They feel called to lead. They thrive in their element. They’re self-aware of what they’re good at and want to do.
Group 2: These individuals choose not to take leadership roles because they know it’s not what they want to do or feel like they don’t have/want the skills required to be successful in that role. They thrive in their area of expertise. They’re self-aware about what they’re good at and want to do.
Group 3: These individuals find themselves in a leadership role even if it’s not something they looked for because someone sees potential in them, so they step up.
Group 4: These individuals move into a leadership role because they don’t see another way to get a more significant title or rewards package without taking on a leadership role. They really would prefer to do the work they really are good at but feel like they don’t have options.
One of three things happens to Groups 3 and 4:
They realize they love being a leader and thrive.
They realize they hate/dislike being a leader and move towards an expertise role they love.
They stay in a leadership role and do well enough not to get fired but don’t inspire and develop their teams nor enjoy what they do every day. They don’t thrive, and the people around them likely don’t either.
Which group do you fall in? Have you made a choice that aligns with your strengths and purpose? Have you tried something and realized it may not be a good fit? Are you feeling stuck and don’t see a way out without losing face and prestige?
Good leadership is more than the title and position. You take responsibility for the success of others. Your value is in making the team and the organization successful. You look for ways to energize the team. You look for ways to recognize the efforts. You celebrate and commiserate together. You look for growth opportunities for your team members. You model the behaviors that will help them succeed in their careers. You show empathy. You teach. You coach. Your job is about others…not just you.
The world needs amazing leaders who want to take on the responsibility because it’s their purpose, not just because they want recognition. If this is you, raise your hand high and find those opportunities.
If you are confident that you don’t want to lead others, don’t raise your hand, don’t say yes. Instead, do what you’re amazing at doing. Do it extremely well. Share your knowledge with others. Lead as an expert, and if there’s not a path, create it for yourself.
If you think you might want to be a leader but aren’t sure, look for signs that you’re already doing it successfully. Ask for perspectives from those who know you best. Reflect on what you love about what you currently do. Consider how you would be spending your time in a leadership role. Does that align with what you’re good at and want to spend time doing?
Signing up for leadership needs to be a thoughtful and concerted action, not a passive decision you fall into.
Think about what you have raised your hand to do. Are you in the right seat?