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Vijay (name changed to maintain confidentiality) is a mid-level, high-performing, and ambitious project manager who is seeking a leadership position. Currently, he excels as an individual contributor, consistently delivering outstanding results. However, he feels disheartened as he is being passed over for a promotion to a leadership role.
In a recent conversation, I asked Vijay a few questions to understand his perspective better:
What do you enjoy most in your current role?
Vijay responded: “I enjoy solving problems and have a unique ability to view challenges differently. When the team struggles with issues like stakeholder management or articulating our product’s value proposition, my boss entrusts me to find solutions. I take pride in being the go-to person in our department, but I yearn to lead a team.”
What does leadership mean to you?
Vijay replied: “Leading a team to achieve goals aligned with the company’s objectives.”
We then discussed how leadership goes beyond merely managing a team. Leadership comes in various forms, and you can be a leader in more ways than you realise.
Here are three key points we covered:
1. Driving Success in Your Role: Even as an individual contributor, you can demonstrate leadership by leading projects and collaborating with stakeholders to achieve excellent results. Leadership involves driving success in your role, whether you are managing a project, spearheading an initiative, or ensuring seamless operations. Your ability to lead effectively in these capacities can make a significant impact.
2. Becoming the Go-To Expert in Your Domain: You can lead by being the best expert in your domain, the person everyone turns to for solving problems and guiding progress. Leading and inspiring others in your field is a powerful form of leadership. By sharing your expertise and mentoring others, you contribute to the growth and success of your colleagues and the organization.
3. Influencing as a Thought Leader: Thought leadership allows you to influence minds positively and make a significant impact. Sharing your insights and shaping the future of your industry positions you as a key influencer. Thought leadership is about inspiring change, driving innovation, and providing valuable perspectives that others look up to.
Leadership is about more than just managing a team; it’s about making a difference in your role, your field, and your industry. Embrace these diverse forms of leadership and combine it with your own uniqueness to unlock your full potential and drive your professional growth forward.
P.S: Do you agree that leadership is more than leading a team of people? Share your thoughts in comments below.
Best Wishes For A Successful Career
Sarabjeet Sachar
Founder & CEO, Aspiration
Seasoned Career Development & Leadership Coach