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6 ways to build leadership skills in college

6 ways to build leadership skills in college

Leadership can show up anywhere in your college experience—in a group project, campus job, student organization or conversation with a friend. Everyday experiences give you opportunities to practice skills like communication, teamwork, problem-solving and adaptability.Ìý

As you get involved at ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½ÆÆ½â°æÏÂÔØ, look for ways to contribute, support others and make a positive impact. Here are six ways to start building your leadership skills.Ìý

ÌýÌýPractice empathyÌý

Good leadership starts with listening to and considering other people’s experiences and perspectives. Practicing empathy can help you build stronger relationships, communicate more effectively and make others feel valued.Ìý

Try practicing empathy by:Ìý

  • Listening without interrupting or immediately offering advice.Ìý
  • Asking questions to better understand someone’s perspective.Ìý
  • Making space for quieter voices during group conversations.Ìý
  • Attending campus events where you can meet people and learn about experiences different from your own.Ìý
  • Checking in with someone who seems left out or inviting them to join you.Ìý

Small actions can help create a more welcoming environment in your classes, residence hall, student organization, workplace and other communities.Ìý

ÌýÌýTake accountabilityÌý

Taking responsibility for your words, actions and commitments builds trust. Everyone makes mistakes, and leadership often shows in how you respond when something doesn’t go as planned.Ìý

If you miss a deadline, make a mistake at work or realize something you said affected someone negatively, acknowledge what happened. Apologize when appropriate, communicate what you’ll do to address the situation and follow through.Ìý

Focus on being honest about what happened, making things right when you can and learning from the experience.Ìý

ÌýÌýSpeak up and share ideasÌý

Sharing your ideas is one way to help make your community better. If you notice a problem or see an opportunity for improvement, consider how you could contribute to a solution.Ìý

This could mean suggesting a new approach during a group project, proposing an event for your student organization, sharing feedback at your campus job or speaking up about something that could improve the student experience.Ìý

When sharing an idea, explain the problem you’re trying to solve, offer a possible solution and listen to feedback from others. Learning how to communicate ideas thoughtfully can strengthen your problem-solving and communication skills.Ìý

ÌýÌýCommunicate through conflictÌý

Disagreements and misunderstandings happen, especially when you’re working with people who have different experiences, priorities and communication styles. Learning how to navigate those moments is an important leadership skill.Ìý

Before reacting, ask questions and make sure you understand what happened. Focus on the situation rather than making assumptions about the other person.Ìý

For example, if someone doesn’t finish their part of a group project, ask what happened and talk about what the group needs to move forward. They may need clarification, additional time or support from tutoring resources. Clear communication can help your group address the issue while maintaining a productive working relationship.Ìý

ÌýÌýFollow throughÌý

Being someone others can count on is an important part of leadership. Follow through on your commitments, communicate when plans change and put effort into the responsibilities you take on.Ìý

You can practice this skill in small ways: arrive prepared for a group meeting, complete your part of a project on time, show up for your shift or give your best effort at practice.Ìý

When something gets in the way of a commitment, communicate as early as possible. Being consistent and dependable can build trust with classmates, friends, supervisors and teammates.Ìý

ÌýÌýHelp others succeedÌý

Strong leaders help create opportunities for the people around them to contribute and grow. Supporting others can make your group or community stronger.Ìý

You might share a helpful resource with a classmate, recognize someone for a great idea, invite a new member into a conversation or offer support when a teammate is struggling. You can also connect someone with campus resources when they need additional help.Ìý

Look for opportunities to encourage others and recognize what they bring to the group. Helping people feel included and supported is one way to make a positive impact in any role.Ìý

Find ways to build your leadership skills at ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½ÆÆ½â°æÏÂÔØÌý

College offers plenty of opportunities to practice leadership, whether you want to take on a formal role or simply get more involved. Consider exploring:Ìý

  • Student organizations: Join a student organization to meet people who share your interests, contribute to a group and find opportunities to build leadership skills.Ìý
  • Leadership opportunities: Explore programs, student employment and other opportunities to develop your leadership skills.Ìý
  • Volunteer opportunities: Get involved in one-time, ongoing or group service opportunities on campus and in the Boulder community.Ìý
  • Career Services: Learn how to identify and communicate the skills you’re building as you prepare for jobs, internships and life after college.Ìý

You don’t have to wait for a leadership title to start building leadership skills. Look for small opportunities to listen, contribute, follow through and support others. Those everyday experiences can help you grow your confidence and prepare for future opportunities on campus, at work and beyond.Ìý