So, for all you relatively new, aspiring leaders, and for you seasoned veterans who are honest enough with themselves to admit that they’re still trying to figure it out, here are three relatively critical tips to make it happen.

Grow up. You’re not a kid anymore. Cuteness will only get you so far. Be honest and recognize your own issues and weaknesses and do something about them. Only then can you develop others, and that’s what successful leaders do.

Do your homework. Learn about your organization, not just your job. Learn what people do… really! How are positions connected to each other? What is happening in your field? What’s changing? What are the current issues? Take the time to research this on an ongoing basis as your world, like mine, is ever changing.

Work hard. Potential is great but it, too will only get you so far. Go beyond the basics of your trade and industry. Do your job, offer to help others and ask to be cross-trained. Why? No matter how bright you are, you need hands-on experience. Doing this will engender respect from employees and help you to make effective leadership decisions in the future.
Sound simple? Not really. It takes a concerted effort to do these things, but if you do, you will succeed!