If only life were like the movies: Everyone is “in charge” of someone or something, and every problem magically works itself out in record time as the hero(ine) gets a promotion by the time the final credits are rolling. In real life, it’s not that easy.
Many people are drawn toward leadership, but once they get there (or close), they realize it can be much more complicated than it looks. Your peers or staff may not be supportive of your goals. Perhaps you’re not yet ready for the big leagues. Maybe your interpersonal skills aren’t entirely developed. Maybe you just weren’t cut out for leadership in the first place! (Ha!)
Whatever the situation, there are three paths you can take when you are in a leadership position, and things start to get challenging; You can a) quit, b) smile and pretend that nothing bad is happening, or c) you can listen, learn, assess, redirect and move yourself and your team forward to even greater heights. When in doubt, choose “C,” and know that more likely, if you chose “C,” it’s your inner leader taking control.
Being a leader does not come naturally for everyone. For some, it is an evolutionary process that occurs daily by experiencing, observing, learning and applying that knowledge. The most successful leaders are good learners.
Here are four of the more important tools leaders need to hone for greater success.
1- Know your field. People are entrusting you to provide them with a service that they need. It’s your responsibility to know your trade or field, almost like you know your own hand. I’ve been advising on perceptions regarding corporate communications strategies for over 30 years. This is not a field you learn overnight. It’s ever evolving and can be very tricky to navigate – but the daily challenges are mentally stimulating and worth it.
2- A perceptive leader recognizes that communication isn’t just about what is imparted, but perhaps more importantly, how it’s imparted. Effective communicators engage their subjects, allowing them to hear the message while feeling like they are an important part of a dialogue. Leaders help others to feel comfortable asking questions or requesting clarification.
3- Good ideas and improvements can come from many different perspectives. Employees and clients can provide you with direction toward improvement. I often remind my clients of the importance of requesting feedback from their shareholders and stakeholders. Just a simple “What could we be doing better?” lets others know you’re willing to listen to suggestions and seek ways to improve.
4- You’ve heard the old adage about the best-laid plans. A companion to that expression should be, “The wind does not break a tree that can bend.” A leader’s true character can shine in the face of adversity. How you handle the unexpected says much about you and your leadership ability.
© Dian Griesel 2025
