I want to share a new podcast with you which has become one of my favorites!
Career Dreams is a popular podcast produced by FORUM Credit Union with hosts Michelle Baker and Chase Batt, leading HR and Talent Development professionals. Whatever the point in your career, there’s something you can take away and use from every episode. (Check out the show website here: https://careerdreams.libsyn.com or access the episodes through your favorite podcast streaming service.)
In one of their recent episodes, “Becoming a Manager is More Than a Promotion” (https://careerdreams.libsyn.com/becoming-a-manager-is-more-than-a-promotion), Michelle and Chase share strategies on how best to approach a transition into leadership. Inspired by an interview they heard with former Deloitte partner, Josh Bersin, they reflect on the need to approach a transition into leadership with the same rigor and intention as you would a career change.
Here are a few of my key takeaways and conclusions after listening:
- With any leadership position you step into, don’t take it lightly. Treat learning to lead in that new role just like you would learning the technical parts of the role.
- A shift must occur in where your time and energy are focused as a leader. A shift must occur in how you lead. There is a learning curve to becoming a better leader. Leadership is a journey and requires preparation.
- Developing your leadership practice continues through your career and grows with experience. It takes intention, self-reflection, self-awareness, vulnerability to step into the imperfect art of leadership, and a willingness to learn along the way.
- Often people are put into leadership roles and are not prepared. Organizations need to do a better job of developing leaders from early career stages through senior level career stages. A multi-dimensional approach to leadership development is also essential – training, career path, coaching, mentoring, sponsorship.
- Leadership is about putting others’ needs before your own self-interest. Soft skills such as emotional intelligence, listening, empathy, authenticity, influence, to name a few, are essential to becoming a better, others-focused leader.
Even if you’re an experienced leader, I challenge you to take an honest look at how you lead, and ask yourself, “Have I made the shift? Do I treat working to become a better leader with purpose and passion? Or, am I stuck in micro-managing and so focused on being ‘the boss’?”
Unfortunately, some leaders never make the shift. And, it’s those leaders and organizations that are struggling to retain and engage employees. They’re stressed and overwhelmed, and everybody around them is, too. Consequences you can’t afford in this environment.
Another important question Michelle and Chase pose during the episode… Is leadership for you? Leadership is not for everyone. And, that’s ok. Discovering your ‘WHY’ will help you answer that question. And, these answers will help you step into your authentic leadership style.
It’s time to make the shift!
If you’re ready to make the shift toward becoming a better leader and building a better workplace, direct message me. I’m here to help.
