How Women Can Improve Their Leadership Skills

According to the Women's Leadership Study, recently released by KPMG, it was found that although most women plan to work in leadership roles, majority of them find it hard to visualise themselves as leaders. The study, which surveyed around 3,000 professionals and college women across the US, found that every 6 in 10 women reported that they want to be employed as a senior leader in an organisation and over 50 per cent of them want to be a part of the board. However, 6 in 10 US women also claimed that they tend to find it difficult to think of themselves as business leaders, while sharing how they identify themselves. More than 56 per cent of working women claimed that they were rather cautious about their femininity and moving towards leadership roles.

bit.ly/1Lhsqxj

Dr. Bernice Ledbetter, Practitioner Faculty of Organizational Theory and Management at Graziadio School of Business and Management of Pepperdine University, wrote in a recent post for The Huffington Post “Fortunately, there are a number of ways that women can develop leadership skills and increase their confidence. Cost, complexity and time commitment vary- but the key is to find the right fit for you. Consider asking your employer to invest in your professional development. Many companies and organizations will pay for classes and trainings. Your boss might also be willing to give you a project that enhances your leadership skills. Sometimes, just asking is all it takes.”

Here are 5 great ways women can build strong leadership skills-

Participate in industry specific seminars

Each and every sector and industry has some associations which conduct various conferences and seminars. Different companies and universities also organise industry specific events which are an excellent way for you to learn from experienced and established leaders and executives, study tips for development and explore latest trends and advancements in your field. Ledbetter wrote “Becoming more immersed in your field and further developing your expertise is one of the best ways to move up the career ladder. ”

Look for online training

bit.ly/1JgORyq

You can find several helpful yet free online resources which can provide you effective guidance for leadership development. According to Dr. Ledbetter “For example, the website Mind Tools has a large index of articles offering advice on topics such as how to delegate effectively, how to build a positive team and how to be an authentic and ethical leader. ”

Pursue a certification program

Several institutes like Pepperdine's Graziadio Business School, offer certificate programmes which have been specifically developed as week-long or short day programmes that focus on teaching a particular discipline. Such type of programmes have been developed for working professionals and aim to offer the flexibility and opportunity to study what they need along with other like-minded individuals. She added “The benefit of getting a formal certification is that in addition to learning valuable information you have a formal credential to add to your resume. ”

Earn an MBA

bit.ly/1TBTnyJ

 In the article, Dr. Ledbetter wrote “Going back to school and getting an MBA or a MS degree in management and leadership is one of the best ways to develop your leader identity. Higher education helps many students, especially women, develop the confidence, credibility and expertise they need to advance in their career.” This will enable you gain expertise in technical skills like marketing, accounting & finance and learn essential human skills like how to lead a team effectively and manage group dynamics.

Get a mentor

Did you know the most effective leadership training can often come an individual who can show you your mistakes, tell you how to make it right and advice you about the future path towards growth. Dr. Bernice Ledbetter added “Having someone who can give you honest feedback and encouragement is critical for women at every stage in their career. ”

What do you think? How are you improving your leadership skills? Feel free to share your views, concerns and experiences with us by commenting below.

Article source - huff.to/1QDmmnV