We assume that if someone is a leader they are in a position of stature, success and authority. But what exactly constitutes a leader and how can you develop your leadership skills to apply them toward a satisfying career?
Maureen Fizzell, director of Simon Fraser University's Business Administration Undergraduate Program, believes that good leaders not only have an area of expertise, but also have a well-rounded skill set derived from a balanced education. "People who have learned to study across disciplines and have a wide range of knowledge will see information in different ways than someone more narrowly educated, and they might recognize opportunities that others might not."
In concrete terms, this means a successful leader possesses a strong knowledge base in a certain area and has well-honed management skills. Effective leaders are clear communicators with quick and firm decision-making abilities; direction givers who support and encourage their team; problem-solvers with a knack for troubleshooting; assertive and aggressive pursuers of goals; and mentors who provide an example for others.
Val Hunter, co-director of the Metro Training Institute, a human services, technology and trades school, believes that goal setting is essential to developing as a leader. "Our most successful graduates are people who have a game plan for the future. By making a conscious effort to stay focused on what is important, and assessing and evaluating one's personal progress toward the goal, the individual has a strong likelihood of attaining it."
Leaders are found in a wide range of sectors and career areas, including careers in management, human resources and finance.
Careers in Business Management
The pursuit of a career in business management generally starts with a post-secondary education and leads to an entry- or mid-level position with a company or organization. People on the management track typically spend many years learning on the job, cultivating their management skills and moving from project management, to middle management, to senior management - a path that often takes upward of 10 years.
Managers work in both the public and private sector, and are the brains and stamina that keep their organizations moving forward. Middle managers plan and organize activities in the departments or groups for which they are responsible. Senior managers are the directors who oversee major activities and undertake long-term strategic planning. Communication and people skills are crucial in these roles, as are organizational abilities and planning skills.
Both middle and senior managers generally require a university education with at least a bachelor's degree, and often acquire further specialized training in business and management throughout the course of their careers. The average annual salary for middle managers ranges from $27,100 to $76,800 (depending on the industry and company in which they work). Average annual earnings for senior managers range from $68,100 to $104,500.
Careers in Human Resources
Human resources is a great career choice for leaders with well-developed interpersonal skills and a keen interest in working with others. Human resources specialists must be familiar with labour law to be able to develop human resources policies. They assist organizations in managing staff, and are often the negotiators between union and management. They help implement recruitment programs, prepare job descriptions and assess employee performance. And because of the human element in this job, communication skills and conflict resolution abilities are the most important requirements for this kind of career. Human resources professionals usually have a bachelor's degree along with specialized training in human resources. Their average annual full time wages are $63,638.
Careers in Finance and Accounting
Finance and accounting professionals, long referred to as "number crunchers", specialize in accounting, business analysis or auditing. These professionals generally require a business degree with a concentration in accounting, and many also complete a professional designation as a Certified General Accountant, Certified Accountant and/or Certified Management Accountant. Many senior managers move from finance and accounting departments to become senior vice-presidents and controllers. Other specific titles in this area include financial auditors and accountants, financial and investment analysts, securities agents, investment dealers and traders. The average full time wages for these occupations range from $47,285 for accountants to $72,203 for financial analysts.
Leading the Way
It's often been said that leaders are made, not born, and with today's increase of entrepreneurial activity in all aspects of work and life, there is no better time to exercise your leadership skills. Take the lead in a class project or help to organize a community group. Start your own summer business or take part in your student government. However you decide to explore your leadership abilities, remember that becoming a leader is a process that involves the ongoing development of your skills and the setting of goals for your future.
