5 Ways To Become a Leader

When it comes to our careers, being a leader is important. It doesn't matter what job you do, striving to be the best at it will set you apart from the rest. But how can you become a leader?


To find the answer, I took a look at the book: "Power: Why Some People Have It" by Stanford business professor Jeffery Pfeffer. In his book, he explains how to become a more effective leader.


Here are 5 tips from the book:


Don't believe that some of us are followers - This myth is the downfall of many. We cling to the idea that some people are born to lead while others are born to follow. It isn't true. We can all be leaders. All it takes is the determination to manage your own career rather than letting it happen to you.


You aren't always going to be liked - Leaders often have to make tough decisions. For example, as a parent, I am in charge and I'm not always popular. Fortunately, it isn't an election and I don't have to be liked. I just have to be willing to stand up for what I know is the right thing. People who are able to put aside the worry about being unpopular build a reputation of being a determined leader.


Build a powerful network - You know the saying that it isn't what you know, but who you know. On a small scale, that is true. If you want to be a leader and have more power, network with leaders in your field and elsewhere. Surround yourself with people who are making a difference. Watch and learn to improve your skills.


Know where you are - Take a good hard look in the mirror and assess your skills and talents. Then, think about where your next step is and plan a course to get there. If you try to think about the big picture, you run the risk of not being able to see the forest for the trees.


Fake it till you make it - Even if you aren't a leader now, start acting like it. Dress better, carry yourself with confidence. When you act the part, before you know it, you will become it and it won't be an act any longer.


Anyone can be a great leader. All it takes is determination and willingness. If you want to climb the ladder, make the choice and jump in.


What do you think about these tips? Are there other things you think are important? Please share your thoughts in the comments.


By Melissa Kennedy- Melissa is a 9 year blog veteran and a freelance writer for Administrativejobsblog and Nexxt. Along with helping others find the job of their dreams, she enjoys computer geekery, raising a teenager, supporting her local library, writing about herself in the third person and working on her next novel.