HIMPower Magazine HimPower July 2018 | Page 33

A A leader “taking credit” for an idea that is not his or hers is not a new behavior for many. There are, however, several actions you can take to improve things for you and your team. Of course, start by praying. Be spe- cific in your prayers, requesting blessings for both you and your manager. Ask for growth opportunities for you and leader ship growth for you leader. Secondly, seek to understand. Set up time with you manager to talk with her about what you are noticing in work super- vision and your ideas. Message the conver- sation not as a threat, but as a way to help build the relationship between the two of you. Win. Win. Listen more than you speak to find out more about what your manager needs, what your manager expects and how she prefers to communicate. Let her know you are proud of her and see her as an example of success. Ask her how you too can be a seen a better leader and grow in your career. As you listen, you may see another side of what you currently see. This will not only help build trust, it will also give you greater perspective as well as actionable steps you can take to grow in your career. This will help you both excel in your roles and you getting the visible credit for your ideas. Also, implement appropriate EQ (emotional intelligence) skills to learn the best way your manager likes to be approached. Also express how who you like to work and communicate. This may include communicating via email. In this case, you can send a summary of the idea you proposed during a coaching session and add that you are excited about helping move the idea forward or sharing other ideas as the things you read or see sparks them. Also consider sharing your ideas with more than your manager in a room. Talk to your manager about how you’d enjoy discussing your idea clearly in team meetings. Even be smartly vocal in forums. Being vocal help builds confidence, improves presentation skills and pushes you to listen to and imple- ment complementary ideas from others. If done right, this also helps you get the expo- sure you’re looking for. #RiseAndFly  Hope LeNoir, Forward Thinking Professional Development Strategist and Coach, is the Founder of Rise and Fly. www.himpowermagazine.com  33