Leadership Through Service
There’s an age-old problem of needing experience to learn a new skill, but not being given the opportunity because of lack of that same experience. You can read all the books, take all the classes, and talk to all the experts, but until you do a thing for yourself you’ll never get that experience.
When I graduated college in 2009 I needed a job, but was turned down time and again due to lack of experience. Finally, after five hundred applications, someone took a chance on me. That experience gave me all the credibility I ever needed to stay employed. I knew how to be a productive corporate citizen and could always find a job valuing my unique skillset.
But eventually, I found myself in the experience problem again. I was no longer an entry-level employee. I was a seasoned individual contributor with no proven leadership experience. I was rejected from management position opportunities because I’d never managed people. So, I did what any reasonable person would do. I found another way to show my ability without the promotion.
I took up leadership positions in other organizations. I served as the Vice President of the Cary Jaycees, I was invited to be on the board of directors for TRUE Daughters, and I was voted in as President of my local Toastmasters chapter. These experiences not only taught me how to lead people, but they gave me the confidence to be more bold at work. I initiated programs, commanded projects, and had something to say in meetings with senior leadership.
The Jaycees provided me an opportunity to lead through service to my community. Each of our community projects requires leadership, vision, organization, planning, strategy, and strong communication. We operate as a team, which means that anyone can run a project and receive all the support they want to make it successful. You’re guided through those leadership competencies by seasoned members.
It’s my opinion that leadership through service is both easier and harder than corporate leadership. It’s easier because the opportunities are just waiting for you, but its harder because you have to lead by influence instead of by authority. Our members are outstanding volunteers, but none of them are required to show up. If you’re going to lead the project, you have to be a compelling leader.
The skill of leadership by influence has enabled me to experience exponential career growth. I moved from Strategic Analyst to Project Manager to Program Manager to Chief of Staff within two years. Recently, I received my annual performance review and in it my boss mentioned that there were two reasons I got the promotion. First, our executive leadership loved that I was a well-rounded individual. Second, leadership through influence isn’t something you can teach, but it is in high demand. Because I’d proven that I could effectively lead teams using only influence, I was given leadership opportunities in highly visible roles. I was hand-selected to manage a team of thirty senior leaders at the company on a mission critical project designated by the CEO.
If you’re looking to develop or enhance your leadership skills there is no finer place to start than the Cary Jaycees. Our board and members are always happy to support people looking to lead a cause. So, pick your favorite community project and come ready make moves.