casting your leadership shadow

STRATEGIES TO SHAPE A POSITIVE CULTURE AND EXPAND YOUR POSITIVE EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP

People and organisations are publically praised or criticised for their leadership every day in the media. The fact is that society, and our workplaces, expect us all to lead in some way.

I was working with an Executive Assistant recently, and they felt that their technical expertise and the relationship with their Principal meant that their leadership contribution to the workplace was overlooked…that they really didn't have the chance to be a leader…that just leading their Executive was hard enough in itself some days!

From my observation, EAs are often in a great place to cast their leadership shadow far and wide – and far more extensively than you might anticipate. They know how the boss thinks, their limitations and their skills; their preferences and their personality. As a result, people look to them frequently for guidance – for structure – for decisions – for leadership. As the gatekeeper their leadership shadow is cast up and down the organisation.

The Executive expects them to not only follow their leadership – and that of the organisation - but to set and uphold those organisational standards - to be a role model for how the organisation thinks and acts, and…back to where I started…ultimately to be held publically to a higher standard.

What are the personal traits that you need to step up as a leader?

My experience in the workplace and working with individuals through coaching has shown me that the self-belief and confidence to step up to that leadership challenge can play a big part. In the role of EA you are always busy, your Executive is always busy, and you often work long hours alone with them; your challenges are often just the pressure and the preparation that are routine in your job.

The art of leadership is the ability to be reflective – to look at our actions - our behaviours - and dare to refine them; to ensure the impact you have on others is always a positive one.

You don’t have to step out and lead in military fashion – barking orders and written instructions are not required! People appreciate good communication, where they are engaged and feel like they are being treated as a person. Taking time to find new ways to communicate with people, to take the lead and shape and influence situations with integrity and professionalism can go along way to casting your leadership shadow.

So how far can you cast your leadership shadow as an EA?

I believe this is your choice. Find the strategies you need to be more effective. Ask your Executive or another experienced EA whom you respect and find out what they have done to grow as a leader across your organisation: read leadership books, seek out a mentor, authentically develop your skills while still being true to yourself and your specialist role.

I look forward to meeting you at the EAN Conference in Canberra on 24 and 25 July to take the time to show you just how far you can cast your leadership shadow.

QUENCH GROUP – it doesn’t matter if the glass is half full or half empty…as long as it quenches your thirst.