How to Demonstrate Leadership Skills
There is no denying that employers are constantly seeking out individuals with the skills and capabilities to be a leader. At National American University, we believe Mavericks like you have the skills to be a true leader— but sometimes simply saying you have leadership skills on your resume isn’t enough. Here’s how to demonstrate leadership qualities at school or at work with a little help from some of the greats.
1. Be Passionate About What You Do and Who You Lead
“A great leader’s courage to fulfill his vision comes from passion, not position.”
—John Maxwell
Passionate people are noticeable to those around them. When you are passionate about what you do it not only reflects in your attitude, but also in your work. There are tasks that may be boring, inconvenient or sometimes difficult to do, but when you are passionate about the work you put in, even the most mundane tasks can be done with a willing spirit. Try it out! You may find it not only shows you are a leader, but helps you get through the day with a smile on your face.
2. Live to Learn as a Leader
“Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other.”
—John F. Kennedy
That’s right—getting that education isn’t just a formality! The desire to keep learning and growing in knowledge is not only a way to impress your leadership skills, but a constant opportunity to improve yourself and the world around you. What says leader more than the knowledge and initiative to change things for the better?
3. Be Courageous and Listen to Those You Lead
“Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen.” -Winston Churchill
Leaders are courageous and confident—they always step up to take on the task at hand. But perhaps one of the most important indicators of true leadership is knowing when to speak up and when to listen. Often people who are passionate about what they do are the first to jump into the conversation—but it’s equally important to remember that true leaders listen to and acknowledge those around them. The insight they gain from being active listeners allows for them to have the understanding and courage to speak up when others are not able to do so. Start putting these leadership qualities to action by listening to those around you—they may need a courageous person like you to be their voice.
4. Prove That Leadership Isn’t Only About You
“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more,
do more and become more, you are a leader.”
-John Quincy Adams
One of the best ways to show that you are capable of being a leader is to help others around you. Research and studies have pointed to the idea time and again— true leaders pour themselves into others. Sometimes the best way to show your boss or instructor what you are really made of is to help others discover their own potential.
This approach is what we at NAU are proud to see accomplished in our students. “We work hard to help others be successful and the biggest reward is being able see our students do the same for those around them.” –NAU staff
5. Earn Your Leadership Role
“Earn your leadership every day.” –Michael Jordan
It really can be as simple as that. If you want to reveal your leadership qualities then you have to put in the effort every single day. Leaders are made through a lot of hard work and perseverance. We see this every day in our students. We know it’s not easy to balance school, work and the rest of your busy life. But hard work and perseverance prove you do not hesitate to put in the work that needs to be done and that you do not quit when things get tough. If you want to prove your leadership qualities—earn it through the work you do every single day.
Many of these leadership skills are just as helpful to your school work and home life as well. Learn how to demonstrate leadership at school, work, and anywhere else. After all, we serve Mavericks—we know you have what it takes.
Want to learn more about being a Maverick? Contact us today!
