Latest Low Cost Leadership Development Ideas

By Jeffrey Price


The world is in need of good leaders now more than ever. These are dynamic individuals who can take charge of complex brands and lead them into a profitable future with integrity. While internal training programs develop leaders, their skill set is limited. Personal development through low cost leadership development options is the best way to achieve universal skills.

The idea of a mentor is an opportunity to identify, link and maintain a growth oriented relationship. You get training through engagement and most importantly by example. Look for a person who is accomplished in the area you target to lead. This could be in your department or organization. Look beyond for leaders in other fields to create a pool where the best ideas are gathered. Many mentors enable you to select the best ideas, develop a personalized cocktail and thus be more versatile in your leadership.

Go for an accountability group. While mentors cultivate your ability and push you to achieve desired goals, an accountability group keeps you motivated and in check. It could be a person you call every day to report progress and seek encouragement. This gives you an opportunity to share goals and resources. It is from this group that you will get valuable contacts and the push to pursue your goals when you are most discouraged.

Make friends with the right people. While leadership is a personal achievement, getting the opportunity to lead provides the experience you need. It also gives others a chance to sample your ideas and thus gain confidence in your ability. Be friendly to your bosses, seniors, management and other decision makers in the industry. However, friendship should not be at the expense of integrity or demeaning your peers.

Be ready to volunteer every time you have a chance. It provides the exposure you need to make a career leap. For instance, sitting at a conference registration desk allows you to meet executives who will offer you the next job. Chat with them, collect their business cards and give yours as well. Sit in committees organizing events without having to be pushed. You have a chance to exercise your ideas. Volunteering also fills your skill gaps and in the process makes your resume solidly attractive.

Take any lateral and cross function opportunity you come across. Being a leader demands that you manage complex organizational structures and situations. As a marketer, develop interest in social media management. Know what accountants and receptionists do. This gives you a chance to understand the operations of your organization. Such understanding will be crucial once you become a leader.

Develop yourself as well. It is not all about careers. Endeavor to acquire a new set of skills from time to time. It could be a new language, short course, healthy diet, exercise, etc. This gives you control over your life and ultimately over those under your care.

Being a mentor is like having fire under your seat or a camera watching every action. It demands the best out of you since someone considers you a role model and is watching. It takes away the thoughts or chances of failure. As such, you will work harder at personal level eliminating any chance to fail. You cannot relax when someone is looking up to you.




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