4 Tips to Level Up as a Leader 🚀

What's up, Next Gen Fam!

"Leadership" is a popular buzzword. Whether you're speaking with a career advisor or listening to a famous TED Talk, we've heard all about the importance of great leaders.

But this topic can feel vague sometimes. This week, we covering four tangible tips to help you level up as a leader.

Let's dive in!

TIPS

#1: Focus on the mission, not yourself.

We all have a tendency to chase personal achievements. "I can't wait to get rich when my company is acquired!" The greatest leaders, however, possess a unique ability to focus wholly on their mission. For example: Patagonia founder Yvon Chouinard seems to be disinterested in fame and just wants to fix climate change. As a result, Patagonia is one of the most successful and beloved retailers in the world.

#2: Recognize your influence.

A team tends to mimic the behavior of their leader. As legendary NFL coach Bill Walsh said, "Your enthusiasm becomes their enthusiasm; your lukewarm presentation becomes their lukewarm interest....When the team is bored, it's not their fault." If you're in charge, be aware of your influence. Give off the energy you want the team to have!

#3: Create fellow leaders.

Imagine your group is planning a large event. As things get busy, your tendency might be to do all the extra work yourself. The better path, however, is to empower your people before times get tough. Don't be the genius with a thousand helpers. Instead, aim to create other leaders. This way, the overall group will be more effective and sustainable.

#4: Demonstrate respect.

According to Ralph Waldo Emerson, “Every great institution is the lengthened shadow of a single man. His character determines the character of the organization.” This is why a positive interaction between an executive and the office janitor can do incredible things for company morale. Great leaders understand the weight of their words. Be sure to treat the janitor with the same respect as the CEO.

QUESTION FOR YOU

Think of a great leader in your life. Why does that person come to mind?

OPPORTUNITIES

• 💬 Slack, one of the leading instant messaging programs, is seeking a Product Design Summer Intern.

• 💸 Brex, the next-generation Fin-Tech unicorn, is hiring Operations Interns.

• 📈 Chord, a booming-platform that supports DTC founders, is looking for an Associate Product Manager.

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