As a leader and manager, your world isn't black and white, right or wrong. Rarely are there simple answers to the challenges you face. Successful management and leadership require you to navigate the grey, the ambiguity, the complexity and the uncertainty. This is especially challenging for those moving into their first leadership role or moving into a leader of leaders’ role. Transitioning to your new role requires you to master new skills and different ways of thinking.

Why do some managers seem to get more from their team members?

Career pivots as they are now being called are the new norm with people of all ages opting to change their career and try something new.

One of the challenges facing organisations now and into the future is the so-called "war for talent" both within and across industries. Playing out globally this has led companies to look outside their borders and industries to find the skills and leaders they require but can you be a great leader without technical expertise? This article from HBR explores the topic.

How much of your career success do you attribute to others?  For many there are friends, colleagues and associates who’ve helped us to get where we are. But there are other groups - mentors, coaches and sponsors who are also integral to success. These terms are often used interchangeably but there is a difference between these roles and you’ll find one more suitable than another at different times in your career. So, what are the differences?

Your willingness to acquire leadership skills is what matters most.

Think about your first leadership/management role. How did you go in this role – did it come easily or did you struggle? How did you “learn” to be a leader/manager? Some will thrive while others struggle. The reality is that we absorb messages and understanding of leadership and management from a variety of people and sources, often without even knowing it. To be a successful leader requires awareness and a desire to develop.

The terms leader and manager are often used interchangeably but is there a difference and what do you need for your business to be successful? In many businesses you are likely to work as both a leader and a manager. To be successful it’s important to understand and develop the characteristics, traits, skillsets and qualities each of these roles require. 

However you got into small business, it’s pretty certain that you’re driven by the vision and passion you have for your product/service. 

With a great idea for a business you quickly found yourself wearing many hats - some where you have experience and some where you don’t.  You’re working hard to keep all the balls in the air and you do this through a combination of gut instinct, previous experience and some expert assistance.