A Letter To A Leader

A Letter To A Leader

I am writing this letter to you today to remind you that you have the ability to be a great leader. And I am confident that many of you already are. I have seen it when I have crossed paths with you. I have observed it through your presence, innovation, and commitment to those we serve and the teams we lead. I want to remind you of your impact, influence and role as a leader and praise you for your desire to take on this important position - for it isn't for the faint of heart.

You have power and influence. We often don't realize the impact that we have on those around us, but your individual and collective input, thoughts and perspectives have the ability to change the course of action. You have power and influence over your surroundings. Continue to use it well, as with great power comes great responsibility (Thank you, Spiderman). You shape others' lives through your innovation, passion, and leadership. Regardless of your role within your workplace, you have the ability to change outcomes for Ontarians. Respect that position, and action it with pride and knowledge that you - and what you do - are important. Be that innovative, influential leader that holds the power of change.

Human connection is critical. We are innately social beings, even those of us who are introverts. In every single session the OLN has hosted this year, we have heard feedback from participants on the importance of feeling connected to their peers and their work. Be intentional when making connections for yourself and others. Some individuals may not know how to initiate it and may need you to lead the way. Relationships are essential in how we work, interact, and grow. Be intentional in creating a connection with those around you. This is what helps to shape our culture, our relationships and in turn, our want to show up - truly show up - each and every day. Be that intentional people leader that builds connection and community.

Acknowledge the difficult. Our job as managers and leaders is hard. We make tough decisions every day, we have hard conversations, we often live between a rock and a hard place, and we face those "there aren't enough hours in the day" moments. We regularly navigate unchartered waters in our day-to-day activities. It is okay to say it is hard, it is okay to say it is heavy, and it's okay not to be "fine" when someone asks how you are doing. Similarly, it is okay to ask for help - in fact, it is encouraged and a sign of strength and courage. You are not alone in those waters, and we, as your leadership peers, can help alleviate the pressure of that rock. Our role as leaders is to model that it is okay to seek support. On the flip side of the conversation, it is also our role as leaders to offer it and give support when someone does reach out. Be that courageous and supportive leader.

Have confidence. We will not get it right 100% of the time. We aren't expected to. Be confident that you are doing your best, learning as you grow, and creating spaces for others to do the same. You are a leader in this organization because you have demonstrated the skills and competencies needed to hold this role. Each day, you continue to grow these skills and become a better version of yourself. Be confident that you are on the right path, that you bring value to your organization and that you will continue to grow along the way. Reflect on what you know and where you need to grow. Be a strong, confident leader with a growth mindset.

Invest in you. Making time and creating space to develop in your own growth is essential. Explore your interests, make a skills inventory, and ask for opportunities. Create a plan to support your development. This can be formally or informally achieved. Everything you learn and every skill you grow benefits those you support and your organization. It also gives you more to celebrate as you work towards your goals. Your development is worth the time. You are worth the investment. Be an ever-evolving leader who invests in themselves.

Celebrate. Recognize and celebrate the successes - big and small – that you and those around you achieve. The impact of meaningful recognition is immeasurable. The simple act of sending an email acknowledging someone's work or perspective can have a lasting impact and could be exactly what they need to hear on a difficult day. It builds a sense of value and visibility. It shows that you see them - and this is a powerful feeling. It is equally important to take a moment to reflect on your own successes and milestone achievements. You are a leader, and as mentioned previously, do difficult things each day – recognize that you overcame those challenges and accomplished something you set out to do. Use it as a motivation to come back and do it time and time again. Celebrate you. Be a reflective and considerate leader who champions recognition.

Be You. Lastly, be your true self. You are the only person who can be you, and that is a pretty incredible thing. You are unique, beautiful, strong, experienced, diverse, brave, talented, passionate, determined—the list could go on. You are remarkable. Be a remarkable leader.

In closing, I want to remind everyone that you have the ability to be a great leader. This will look different for each of you. It is not a one-size-fits-all or a cookie-cutter. This is not specific to your role within the organization. Your leadership is shaped by you. Explore it. Embrace it. Acknowledge it. And celebrate it.

I am grateful to each and every one of you and so proud of the great leadership I observed and learned from. Thank you for being you. I appreciate you.

Yours in Leadership,

Erin Donahue

Todd Bentley

Strategic Marketing Leader | Data & ROI Driven | Customer-Centric | Brand Builder | Change Master | Cross-Functional Collaborator | Team Developer | Driver of Sustainable Growth

8mo

Thank you Erin. This is gold!

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