You’ve worked hard to get where you are today and it’s definitely a notable success. But if you’re like so many people out there who want more from their job, (but just aren’t sure how to take the next step to a new level in your career), maybe it’s time to start using those leadership skills on a new person: your boss. How on earth can you lead your leader? Read on to find out how!
Subtlety
Of course, you can’t simply walk up to your boss and tell him or her that you want them to do a certain task. That would probably be met with a certain level of disbelief. The leadership skills that are needed in order to lead your bosses involves being more subtle than direct.
Suggestions
Speaking of subtlety, it’s best to make suggestions to your superiors rather than requests or demands. Leading on this level isn’t about getting someone to do the work for you, it’s about getting your bosses to agree with your opinions and see value in your work. When you meet with c-level executives, follow up your suggestions or recommendations with data and reasons why your suggestions will benefit them and you will lead the leadership on the course you choose.
Reliability
When you can be counted on to deliver the goods, leadership is likely to take your suggestions much more seriously. Being accountable and reliable is a desirable characteristic in most levels of management and to demonstrate that to your superiors will influence their decisions to follow your lead.
Knowledge
Without the knowledge to back up your suggestions, you probably won’t get very far. Go into your next meeting with ideas, suggestions and the knowledge (thus, the confidence you need) necessary to deliver a compelling argument.
