Not a "born leader?" Build your potential.

Don't be discouraged if you're not a "born leader." You, too can be a strong leader. In the workplace, you may describe yourself as a leader in certain situations and not others. See the tips below on how to build your leadership potential.

• Stay informed. Communicate frequently with other people. In doing so, you'll gain knowledge.
• Stretch your comfort zone. Continue to learn. You know the expression, "You learn something new every day." Make sure that you do! Speak with people in different occupations, read a book, newspaper, blog or magazine.
• Take responsibility and ownership for your actions. It's easy to point a finger. Stand up and take responsibility — it shows integrity.
• Be open to new opportunities. Look to your tribe, business, department and social community for ways to contribute and to grow.
• Set goals and follow through. Make it a point to write your goals down (check our previous blog post on goal setting). Note specific steps that you must take and be mindful of realistic timelines. Track your progress regularly.
• Be positive. Look to the positives of a situation — not the negatives — when change is on the horizon. Focus on what's working well in your place of business, and not what isn't. When there is a problem, find solutions.
• Raise your emotional intelligence (EQ). A powerful force in the workplace is the ability to work well with others. Use your EQ to build rapport and relationships with those around you.
• Network. Meet new people whenever you can, so that you can exercise your leadership skills (check our previous blog post on networking skills).

Get more professional tips like these at TriSec 16! We hope to see you there!