Fearless Leaders Unite!

What makes Superman a hero is not that he has power, but that he has the wisdom and the maturity to use the power wisely. – Christopher Reeves

Do you have the three things that employers look for in a great leader? Are you a great manager? Managers have a direct impact on a company’s bottom line, so choosing the right leaders for one’s team is crucial. A great employee does not always translate to being a great manager making it often hard to promote from within. Not everyone can be Superman.

Let’s take a hard look at the three leadership qualities the most successful leaders possess.

1. Aspiration: Are you hungry? Do you want “more”?

If you are content with your current position and work load, and do not wish to risk your work/life balance, you are not likely going to be happy as a manager.

Employers are looking for the person who has voluntarily taken on new projects, increased responsibility, and accountability. Natural leaders are responsible for contributing new ideas and growth opportunities for the company as a whole. Your resume needs to document these efforts whether applying in-house for a new role or seeking new employment.

It’s okay to brag in this instance, despite your mom telling you it is bad manners to do so otherwise.

Are you a great manager?

2. Ability: Can you get it done?

Ability does not relate only to your tactical skills. It also refers to your soft skills. Do you have the personality to inspire others to buy into your mission and pull together toward a goal? Strong office relationships and communication skills combined with a natural grace are key.

Are people comfortable coming to you for guidance and advice? A leader needs to be assertive in a positive way and motivational too.

3. Engagement: Where do you see yourself in 5 years if you are named Manager?

Employers want people who buy into the organization’s values, culture, and mission. Can this person make the emotional commitment to the company? Time, money, and resources do not come cheap when hiring and training a manager. A successful leader drives the success level of each person on his team. Employers need leaders who can propel others forward.

In a Monster.com survey, 40% of employees cite managers as a reason they stay with their employer. 67% of employees are engaged when managers focus on employee strengths and 64% want supervisors who check in with them every two weeks or more often to feel supported. When asked to rate their bosses on a scale from 1 to 5, with 1 being “horrible” and 5 being “excellent”, 38% responded 1, and only 17% chose 5. Worse still, a study by Accenture showed that 31% of employees leave their jobs because they dislike their boss.

If you are looking to pursue a managerial position whether within your current firm or in the job market today, I am happy to provide a free consultation on your resume. Just email me at patty@gettingtheretoday.com Together, we can unite and showcase your achievements to highlight your leadership abilities

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