How does one quantify leadership? If I lead one type of organization, does that qualify me to lead another type of organization? If I am a school principal for a time, could I transition to be the CEO of a non-profit...a church administrator...a small business...a college of business? While there are always new skills to be learned, I believe that leadership skills are leadership skills - and transferable.
What are the leadership characteristics and traits that are a given in all types of organizations? They might include:
INTEGRITY
STRATEGIC PLANNING
ABILITY TO DREAM AND ENVISION
CARING FOR PEOPLE
WANTING OTHERS TO SUCCEED AND LEAD
TAKING CARE OF DETAILS
WORKING WELL WITH OTHERS
ENACTING CHANGE
I think that if I have these abilities and skills, I should be able to lead pretty much any organization. Is there a learning curve involved with this type of change? Absolutely, but I am guessing that people who have the above skills are also quick learners?
So go ahead - take a chance - try something new - transition into a different leadership role - and keep making a difference in the world and in people's lives!
