The most useful leadership lessons from successful entrepreneurs are to solve a real problem, hire people stronger than you, treat failure as information, decide with the long term in mind, protect trust, keep learning and stay persistent. None of these require a startup. You can practise all seven in your first job, whatever your title. This guide explains each lesson with a real example and one action you can take this week. Why should young professionals study entrepreneurs' leadership? Entrepreneurs make decisions with limited money, time and information, so their habits show what leadership looks like when there is no rulebook. Early-career professionals face a smaller version of the same problem: unclear instructions, scarce resources and no formal authority. Leadership at work is not only about managing people. It also covers taking ownership, communicating clearly, handling setbacks and earning trust. These are the traits the lessons below build. A caution on survivorship b...
We have all heard about “influencers” in this era, thanks to social media. That sort of influence has a slight in common with real influence at work. Once you understand what it feels like to be motivated by people who have made an identifying mark in your life, you have a feeling of significant influence, person to person. Now it is your shot. If you are ready to show how to be a positive influence, here are a few steps that will meaningfully change how you relate to anyone in your life. 1. Respond, don’t react: Life is sometimes hard, and you cannot become everyone’s cup of tea. Suppose that somebody said something negative about you or something dear to you. What will you do? Analyze and pause to regain your calmness and think fairly Pausing to analyze and think will give you a chance to respond in a better way. People will see this attitude of yours and get influenced by it. So, it’s a win-win situation for you. 2. Be honest about your own emotions: Of course, being posit...