BE
A SUCCESSFUL LEADER, TIPS FOR SUCCESS
(Borrowed
from
“The Winning Edge”)
Find
a role model.
Choose someone you believe has good leadership skills,
whether from inside or outside NALS. Observing
a role model helps keep you directed in what kind of
leader you want to be and how you want to develop. Networking
through professional organizations can help you find
role models and other professionals with whom you can
share leadership concerns and issues.
Volunteer
for projects. Working as
a team member will help you observe how other
people lead. Consider how you like to be
treated as a team member and remember that when
you are in charge of a project or committee.
Be
humble.
Just because you are the leader does not mean you know
all the answers. You need help from others.
Demonstrate
loyalty. Do not try to
outshine your members. Avoid backstabbing
and gossip. Your purpose as a leader is
to ensure smoother operation – not to make
a name for yourself. Be a leader for the
right reasons.
Be
professional.
Follow proper business etiquette in your dress, speech,
and conduct. Speak clearly and avoid slang such
as “yeah”
or “uh-huh” when speaking with your members.
Think
of every project as a learning opportunity. When
you assume a leadership role, go into it expecting
to be successful!
Be
flexible.
Realize that situations may occur that you were not
prepared for, but that you, as a leader, will have
to handle. For example, you may need to give
up lunch to meet chapter deadlines, or do your president
reports. Flexibility will help you better manage
unforeseen problems.
Listen. Seek
input from chapter members, and really listen to
their suggestions and feedback. This encourages
everyone to stay involved. AVOID THE DREADED – we
already tried that and it did not work!!!
Delegate. Leaders
have the responsibility of dividing work into tasks
that can be assigned to chapter members. Talk
to your chapter members to find out where their strengths
and interests lie. Ask for volunteers before
randomly assigning tasks.
Read
and observe.
The more in tune you are with what is happening in
your chapter, the better prepared you are to lead people,
and the more likely you will be chosen as a leader.
Show
appreciation.
Thank team members for work well done. You can
even create certificates of appreciation, send complimentary
memos or cards.
The e-mail is also a good source to share accomplishments.
THE
EASIEST WAY TO SHOW YOU ARE A LEADER IN NALS – PAY
YOUR DUES ON TIME!
Remember,
leadership is not an invitation to put on a
one-person show.
Successful leaders have mastered the art of diplomacy.
