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Gain Leadership Skills In An Entry-Level Job
Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Before leaders are able to reach their top position, they had to have started somewhere and that's usually at the bottom. Before they could have followers of their own, they too had to follow someone else.
Don't be fooled. Working in an entry-level position doesn't mean you are exempt or not capable of taking on some leadership roles. Employers want to see these traits in their employees it shows growth and initiative.
When you don't have anyone to manage, it can seem difficult to demonstrate leadership. But leadership is not defined by having the ability to give orders. It really means being able to take control of and handle a situation.
For anyone who wants to make their way up to the top, it can be hard to know where to start proving that they are leadership material. The key is to start small. As they say, you have to learn how to walk before you can run, or in this case, climb.
One way to start is by proposing charity project to your boss. With all the noble causes there are to contribute to, this is especially the time of year to think about getting on board. By organizing an initiative to give back, you're able to demonstrate your ability to manage a project completely on your own direction. Be proud of what you're able to accomplish and let people in on the results of the project. Be sure to shine a special light on how everyone did under your leadership.
Another good approach is to start racking up brownie points with the boss. Impressing your boss doesn't come from kissing up.  The right way to get on any boss's good side is by being a problem-solver. Showing your boss that you can look at a situation and find a solution for it that works will make you stand out from the rest of the team. Anyone can perform a task, but a leader looks for what tasks needs to be done.
If there are any interns or new people in the office, take the opportunity to offer them some guidance. Mentoring an intern or someone new allows you to move up from the bottom of the food chain. It's always a good chance to polish your people skills, something very important when it comes to being a being a leader. Your boss will start to notice that you're taking charge of things that exceed typical expectations.
Taking charge is just what it takes to show your boss the leader within. Step it up for the next big project. Take the lead and dispell any notion of being the shy employee waiting for someone to pick them. Management typically won't assign roles to people they don't think are up for it. Volunteer, speak up and cash in on a great opportunity to shine.