Posted on: November 11, 2017 / Categories: EDLP 708
I have recently spent time developing my leadership “presence.” Now, I’ve always felt that my strengths a leader were solidified in my ability to get along well with others, present my opinions and ideas in a clear manner, and find strengths in others. I’m learning that I may not be as strong in these categories as I originally thought.
I accept that there will always be areas where I can improve. I have a terrible memory. I have to work very hard at remembering things that do not directly impact me on a daily basis. I must also work daily to improve my time management skills. I sometimes get caught up in the personal side of situations and allow that to sidetrack me from my tasks. These are areas that I will continue to work toward improving.
Having completed a self analysis of my interviewing skills and my “stage presence” I am also seeing ways to improve in the areas I considered strengths. I read an article called 10 Questions to Power Up Your Leadership Presence, (http://nyusternldp.blogs.stern.nyu.edu/10-questions-to-power-up-your-leadership-presence/) , and it reminded me of several ways to improve in these areas that I consider strengths.
The first thing that struck me was using a Head-Heart-Hands approach. The article suggests that, when speaking to an audience, you must consider what you want them to know (head), what you want them to feel (heart), and what you want them to do (hands). What a simple, yet powerful, way to simplify a daunting task. I mean, think about it, if I can achieve those three things and keep them as the basis for my talk, I will be more personally connected; therefore, I will stay more focused and be more comfortable.
I was also struck with the idea of being a concise communicator. You see, I’m a rambler. I could talk off the cuff for hours if it is a subject with which I am comfortable. But I HATE sitting in a meeting where people do that. I have always wanted a speaker to “get to the point” and not “beat around the bush” and yet, I do not do that myself. I found it very humbling when I realized this point.
I will continue to work on my leadership presence and my skills for communicating.Tags:communication, leadership, presence, self analysis, skills