By Kristen Carter, Guest Contributor
I always thought that being a leader was synonymous with a management title. But, have you ever known someone that was a great leader—innovative, encouraging, positive—but didn’t carry a management role in an organization? The answer for most of you is likely a resounding, “Yes!,” and you also have probably wondered why he or she hadn’t yet been promoted. The reality is it is possible to be an effective leader without being a manager. Let me explain.
Although there are overlapping qualities, which you see in each leader and manager, there are substantial differences between the two roles and the skill set each entails. An individual may possess great administrative, analytical, organizational, and planning skills fit for a manager, yet he or she may be seriously deficient with regard to the influence he or she is able to wield, and/or be deficient in their communication skills. A sign of a great leader is the acknowledgement of such personal weaknesses and being honest with oneself about the realities associated with being a manager. Some people are willing to take on a management role but do not prefer the expectations or obligations associated with being a leader, while others do not aspire to hold such a title and desire to leave an imprint regardless of the role they are serving in.
If you find yourself identifying with the latter, I have just the recommendations for you on how to be an effective leader in the workplace, without having to carry the management title. An article posted on Careerrealism.com suggests some tips to becoming a leader at your job.
- Try new things. This will involve some risk and possibly cause you to feel uncomfortable at times. But, it’s important to remember that leaders do not fear taking risks, as long as it aligns with what they believe! A great example would be volunteering for a project that no one else wants to take on.
- Be open to feedback. Receiving constructive criticism is a great way to improve yourself and enhance your professional skills. If you are closed off to feedback, you are only living off of yourself, which doesn’t help you to grow as a professional.
- Take responsibility. Owning up to your stuff, the good and the bad, is a great way to demonstrate your leadership. It’s important to note that you cannot learn if you have not made any mistakes.
While not everyone is cut out for management, there are leadership opportunities everywhere. You don’t need to create these opportunities yourself, but simply have to look for them. How do you lead on a daily basis without a title? Join the discussion on the Career Services LinkedIn page (AMU and APU Career Services).
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