Leaders make more money. In general, people who perform at a very high level make 30% more money than their peer group. Luckily, we can all develop leadership qualities and put ourselves in leadership positions. However, it doesn’t always mean a new title.
1. In SALES
If you are in any type of business development role, being a leader in sales can actually make you more money. What do I mean by that? I’m not talking about being a sales VP. Imagine there were only two ways of going into a sales meeting—as a stereotypical salesperson and as a leader. The “salesy” person will turn off the prospect. Nobody wants to be sold. However, a LEADER displays confidence, has executive presence, and ultimately shows the prospect not what he can do, but WHY he does it. A leader INSPIRES others to follow him or her. If you display the passion, authenticity, and presence of a leader, you are more likely to make the sale.
2. With CLIENTS
When working with clients, if you take a leadership approach, you are more likely to keep and grow your business. Leaders must LISTEN and provide SOLUTIONS for their clients. Your clients hire you to do something they cannot do alone, so take initiative! If you take the time to really listen to what your clients have to say and provide quality solutions, you will likely find opportunities to grow your accounts.
3. In the OFFICE
Leaders get promoted. If you display leadership qualities in the office, you will have opportunities coming your way. This means doing more than what is listed in your job description, making positive contributions for the company without needing recognition, helping your colleagues succeed, and staying away from office politics, among other things.