If you are a leader or an aspiring leader, how can you demonstrate you leadership credentials?

1. Focus on what matters

As a leader it is all too easy to focus on what is familiar or what you like rather than on what really matters. Make a list of the 5 things that really matter most in terms of achieving personal and organizational success and make sure that you focus your energies on these areas.

2. Set values and live by them

We all have certain values that determine how we operate and the choices we make. We may not have sat down and clearly defined and articulated those values, but as a leader it is important to be clear on your own and the organizations values. A simple way of doing this is to ask your self two simple questions:

What can you be relied on for?  What do you stand for as an individual and organization?

Once you have determined your values, make them explicit and make sure that you check from time to time that you are honoring those values.

3. Empower others

Those that you are leading probably share many of the desires that you have. Things like being motivated, feeling that their efforts are recognized, making a difference, taking on new challenges to name just a few. One of the easiest ways to demonstrate your leadership capabilities is by setting out the overall vision and then empowering others to make it happen.

4. Communicate regularly

When people are not kept informed about what is happening they start to speculate. Similarly if they think that what they are saying is been ignored, they will eventually give up and stop communicating. Look for ways of communicating with and getting feedback from people that you lead. With the advances in technology and the multitude of channels available, this has never been easier.

5. Be honest

People may not like everything that you do or decision that you take as a leader. What they will appreciate is honesty. For example, if the company is struggling, be honest with people and seek their contributions on how to get things back on track.

6. Be self aware

As a leader it is vital that you demonstrate a high degree of self awareness. This self awareness goes beyond knowing what you do well and what you don't do so well. It also includes understanding the impact of your behaviors on others.

7. Be persistent

As a leader or aspiring leader you will encounter many obstacles and barriers along the way. Those that succeed are persistent and are willing to keep going even when the odds are against them.

Success as a leader is challenging. So what do you need to work on to demonstrate your leadership credentials and achieve real success?