Are You A Leader Or A Postman?
Now this might seem like a strange title for a blog post and even I would admit that it is a little quirky. What prompted me to write this blog post is that I seem to be coming across more and more people who aspire to be leaders and think that it is all about getting more and more qualifications.
Now don’t get me wrong, qualifications and extra knowledge are always useful. At the same time you need to be checking to make sure that you are not gathering more qualifications:
- As a substitute for taking on that scary real life work project that is going to really take you out of your comfort zone, challenge you and see what you are really made of.
- In the hope that somehow employers will see you in a different light and fast track you to the top.
- As a substitute for developing the interpersonal skills and qualities that are so vital to success at a senior level.
Next time you find yourself thinking about getting yet another qualification or certification, stop and ask yourself:
- How does this add to what I already know?
- What difference is it really going to make?
- Is there another way of achieving the same result?
- Am I really applying all of the knowledge that I already have?
The truth is that collecting and delivering mail is hugely important. At the same time you need to decide whether you are in the business of collecting more letters or are in the business of realising your own potential and creating success as a leader.
Duncan Brodie of Goals and Achievements helps accountants and health professionals to become highly effective leaders and managers. He invites you to take advantage of his free audio e-course Leadership Success at www.goalsandachievements.co.uk
Tags: Responding To Leadership Challenges, Qualifications and Leadership, The Fast Track to Leadership, Leadership Experience, Leadership Qualities, Skills for Senior Management
About the Author Duncan Brodie
Since 2006 I’ve worked with in excess of 8,000 accountants and professionals in workshops, seminars and one to one helping them land their next jobs and become better leaders, presenters and business partners. Before that I spent 25 years in accountancy climbing the career ladder from Payments Clerk to FD. I’m a CIMA Fellow, Certified Professional Coach and Team Coach Facilitator.