blue stick figures with center red stick figure higher than the rest all standing on the word leadershipLeadership skills can be learned and developed in a number of ways. Here are a few:

  • Read (or listen to) what professionals have to say. There are a large number of books on management and leadership.  Short on time? Try listening to audiobooks or podcasts. 
  • Learn on the job and grow from your mistakes. This approach taken by many can be risky to both the performance of your organization and your career.

  • Attend general management training. There are a number of management training courses live and on-line for skill development. They are for the most part generic and don’t cover the nuances of managing scientists and a laboratory.
  • Have a mentor. A good process if the skills of the mentor and the person being mentored are a good match. Commit to carving time from busy schedules to make the process effective.
  • Learn from the practical experiences of others who are managing laboratory organizations. Networking, meeting peers and professionals in your field and discussing challenges and successes are all great ways to improve your leadership skills.

Experts agree that the latter is the most effective way to learn. Learning from the practical experiences of others who share the same challenges and issues as you do is the premise of the ALMA workshops and conference. Whether you are a first-time supervisor or have been managing for several years the ALMA conference and workshops provide a great opportunity to enhance your leadership skills. Click here for more information and to register for ALMA2019.

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