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Do you need to identify and develop leaders in your organisation? Not sure where to start? Why not start with yourself?
That might sound a bit weird, but as the saying goes, ‘it takes one to know one’. Think about your own leadership journey – what qualities and capabilities do you possess that might give you an idea of what to look for in others? Did you have a mentor or role model who identified some leadership potential in you?
Emerging leaders in your team have a few identifiable characteristics.
Here are our Top 5 ‘Emerging Leader’ characteristics that are easy to spot:
- Initiative
Leaders don’t stand around waiting for direction, they see things that need to be done and go and do it or ask if they can help. Even their initiative in the staff kitchen wiping the bench can indicate that they take ownership and make things happen. They make suggestions of how things could be improved, support others in the team who might be overloaded or take on extra responsibility enthusiastically.
2. Work ethic
They are not afraid to get their hands dirty and take some risks. They put in extra time to finish a task, work well under pressure and don’t make everyone else suffer because they are flat chat. They also have a high standard for themselves. (Be aware that some people might need to finish late because they are not using their time effectively during the day).
3. Passion for outcomes
Great leaders have a passion for outcomes. They are aware of the big picture and realise that some extra work needs to be done to achieve the outcomes the business needs. They are goal focused and are committed to being clear about expectations.
4. People follow them
They naturally gather followers. You will notice others in the team look to them for advice and value their opinion. They are not necessarily the loudest in the room either and do not push themselves forward but are highly respected with a great deal of empathy.
5. Integrity
Leaders with integrity are open, honest, lead by example and build trust and respect with their team and customers. They walk their talk, speak with wisdom and understanding and allow those around them to shine. They are humble.
How do we develop these people into high performing leaders? Do you remember learning to ride a two-wheeler? You’re out with your dad at the local tennis courts practicing, with him running behind holding the seat. Dad calls out, “You can let go now”, you turn around to see him standing, watching, miles away. He had not been holding the seat for ages, but you hadn’t noticed, and you WERE RIDING BY YOURSELF!
Developing emerging leaders is a little like this. You support them for a little while until they can do it on their own. You are still there with them, but they are independent.
