SmartMom

Mothers are leaders, both inside the boardroom and at the kitchen table. But do you know what kind of leader you are? Whether you are considering returning to the workforce after taking time away to care for your family, hoping to put your established career on the fast track, or guiding the school board or your homeowners association, learning to be an effective leader is critical to your success.

Many of the qualities of a good leader, such as integrity, competitive advantage and vision, are constant and will continue to withstand the test of time. But in order to thrive, leaders must adapt to the world around them. So how is the role of a leader changing? A recent study conducted by Marshall Goldsmith of the Harvard Business Review analyzed the most important elements of the leaders of the future.

Before you peruse the list, think about what kind of leader you are now. Then review the 6 changing dynamics of leadership below and, in pure, SmartMom-style, strive to hone them all!  

[Think globally]
Even if your business runs domestically, you must be aware of global implications on your industry now and in the future, such as shifting suppliers, support staff, etc.

[Appreciation of cross-cultural diversity]
Be open and willing to work with people from other religions, cultures and countries, and learn from them, too.

[Technologically savvy]
You do not need to be a technician for Apple to lead, but you will need to recognize the impact of technology on your core business and feel very comfortable navigating in that space.

[Build alliances and partnerships]
Today’s leaders will not operate in a vacuum within 4 walls. Developing strategic corporate relationships outside your own company is critical to the vitality of your business.

[Share leadership]
Be willing to ask, listen and learn from your peers, as well as those “knowledge workers” you are managing who will undoubtedly know more than you in some areas.

[Learn agility]
The most important characteristic that will differentiate a leader of the future is her insatiable curiosity. Continuous learning and growing will keep a leader ahead of the pack in a world that is constantly changing. So read, ask, listen and…learn, learn, learn.