Leadership FAQs - Questions from Today’s Future Leaders

One Friday each month I dedicate the post to looking at some questions I have heard recently from developing leaders. Sharing those questions and my thoughts for them is a way for me to spread the information to as many leaders and future leaders as possible. If you have a question about leadership or just a situation you would like some additional insight on, please email me at Effective Retail Leader. Let’s take a look at this week’s question.

I work for someone that I do not consider a good leader. What can I do and how do I learn to be a better leader than they are?

This is an interesting, yet not uncommon question I hear. The first question I usually ask back is, “why do you believe they are not a good leader?” Understanding why anyone feels someone else is not effective can dramatically change how they continue to progress in their career. In some instances, the issue is not with the leader, but the learner and how they are interpreting the style of leadership or communication that is being provided. However, for the sake of discussion, let’s assume that the leader you work for is struggling in their role, what can you do to continue your own growth?Learn from everyoneI am sure you have heard others say this as well, but I have learned some of the best leadership lessons by seeing others do exactly the opposite of what should be done. I cannot tell you the number of times, especially early in my career, that I made mental notes and said to myself, “I never want to do that, or say that, or be seen that way.” Observation is in many ways the best teacher. You can learn from anyone and everyone - good lessons, bad lessons, and all of those in between. Every experience you have is an opportunity to define yourself and who you want to be as a leader.Do your own researchRegardless of whom you work for and their level of skill, you must own your development. You cannot rely on others to always provide teaching to you. As you come across situations where you are unsure of the best way to handle things, take some time to research what others have done. From that information, refine your thoughts and make it your own. There is no shortage of resources available to anyone today - podcasts, YouTube videos, written articles, books, or TEDTalks are all excellent sources of new leadership ideas and shared situations. I have several that can get you started in the Resources section of the Effective Retail Leader website.Ask other leaders around youIn most businesses, especially retail, there are always other leaders that you can ask and look to for advice on your development. If you are in a store position, you may turn to the Assistant Store Manager if your Store Manager is the one in question. Alternatively, don’t be afraid to ask your District Manager. Good District Managers are always interested in finding team members that are looking to grow with the company. This is an excellent way to let them know you are curious about learning and eager to advance. Few of these leaders will ask why you are seeking their counsel instead of your managers. They will likely know already and believe that you want an additional perspective and respect you for asking them. It is rare in most retail environments to find good leaders that get overly caught up in hierarchy concerns, so do not be afraid to ‘skip levels’ and ask questions about your own development.Taking control of your growth and career advancement will ensure that you are never placing your future in the hands of others. While it is important to develop relationships and find others that will advocate for you, it is not necessary to only look one step above you to find good mentors that can further your learning.For additional reading on a similar subject, you can check out this Harvard Business Review article, What to do When Your Boss Won’t Advocate for You.If you have found yourself in a similar situation previously or have helped someone that experienced this, share your ideas and stories in the comments section.