Leverage

In most fields early career success comes as a function of technical skills and functional capabilities. We are valued for what we know and what we can deliver for the organization. This brings promotion and advancement. These skills, combined with a positive attitude, are critical to climbing the ladder.

However, as we advance into leadership roles, our value is defined less by the work products we deliver ourselves and more by the way we enable others. Leadership is almost exclusively about people skills.

This transition can be challenging as new leaders use their technical skills as a crutch to feel like they are adding value. Failure to recognize that the basis of your contributions has changed can be fatal.

As a leader your job should be focused on others. Are people in the right roles? Does the culture of the organization align with your values? Are people collaborating effectively and lifting each other up? Have you established an environment where your people are intrinsically motivated to succeed?

Being great at something will only get you so far on your leadership journey. You’ve got to learn to enable others and give them the space to succeed.