Chantel Davis is manager of philanthropy and volunteers at Eliza Bryant Village and a 2018 Progressive Woman honoree.
Oftentimes, when we think of leadership, we think of the qualities exhibited by those who serve in top-level management positions. And while the images do portray an accurate ideal of leadership, they aren’t the only examples we should think of when visualizing what it takes to be a leader. The reality is that these skills should resonate throughout the entire organization.
There is a need for everyone, specifically the individuals who hold these top positions, to look beyond this image and recognize the talents and abilities that exist among those who serve other roles within the organization. This new lens is essential in sustaining the organization’s overall leadership capacity.
The people filling nonleadership roles may aspire to one day move up and support an organization as a leader. Although it may not yet be a part of their responsibility, there is still an opportunity to nurture their leadership behaviors early on for future organizational benefit. The benefits are endless, from retaining key talent to increasing the organization’s agility.
As a young professional beginning a career in the nonprofit sector, I always had a desire to one day lead an organization. While I wasn’t necessarily ready to take on such a position due to my limited years of experience, it was evident I possessed a strong commitment and passion for the type of work that would be required, as well as a developing sense of decision-making and a desire to think outside the box.
Under the mentorship of a leader who recognized this drive early in my career, I was able to successfully participate in tasks that helped push me closer to my desired goal, while also increasing the success of the organization.
Fast forward to today and, as a manager, I have more responsibility for the growth of the organization, which heightens my need to hone in on qualities such as humility and empathy. As I plan my own future and my desire to continue to grow as a leader, I recognize that these qualities, in addition to others, have the potential to propel my career to even greater heights. This personal goal, which may also ring true for others in similar nonmanagement roles, is an opportunity not to be overlooked.
Leverage opportunities to serve and grow in these positions for the benefit of the organization. Successful companies create an environment where everyone who has the passion to lead can grow their skillset. Looking beyond the typical view of leadership and investing the time, mentorship and support to guide individuals at all levels of the organization will inherently transform the leadership culture and sustain the mission of the work being done.
The need to nurture development at all levels is a great responsibility not to be taken lightly by the management team. Identifying and investing in the growth of all who possess the capacity to lead can reap great long-term benefits in productivity and sustainability for both staff and the organization.
