I had the opportunity to view the above web video entitled "Pharrell Williams -Happy: Trombone Loop." While this video is a showcase of musical talent, I noticed many areas of symbolism for workplace leadership.
As a career coach, I meet people in various stages of their career from entry level to executive leadership. More often than not I will encounter someone who is looking to climb an industry ladder seeking roles such as manager, supervisor, director, etc. Before my clients begin the process of career elevation I ask them one simple question: Do you understand the principles needed for workplace leadership?
Back to the video and what I observed. The clip shows a professional who:
1) has mastered the skills needed to produce a quality end product.
2) possesses a high-level of confidence.
3) is knowledgeable and understanding of each resource function.
4) is capable of meeting and navigating challenges.
Master the Skills
It is safe to assume from the video that this is not the musician's first time producing loop music. He has spent time mastering the skills needed to play the trombone, hear and read music, and operate the equipment. It is unlikely that he walked in one day with the level of skill it takes to reproduce Pharrell's "Happy" song in this manner and make it sound so close to the original.
You should understand that leadership roles do not always happen overnight. Most jobs require employees to put in time and work before they take on leadership positions. Employers are looking for applicants who have taken the time to hone their skills through experience and are able to produce quality results.
For example, an employer hiring sales managers is likely looking for someone who can lead and mentor others on fundamental sales skills. Sales leaders generally have an in-depth understanding and practice of sales tactics such as cold-calling, networking, and presentation skills. The effectiveness of their sales techniques is shown in their sales numbers over a period of time. As a leader, a person serving as a sales manager must display a master level skill set that has been successful for his/her employer. The point being, workplace leadership does not always happen quickly and usually requires you, the applicant, to sharpen your skills.
High-level of Confidence
Did you notice how relaxed the musician was in the video? He knew just when each new layer of sound needed to come in and he was not hesitant in his actions. He had several effects going at the same time, yet we didn't see him fumbling around trying to get things done. He handled each step with precision and confidence.
While I am sure many leaders stress out over the decisions they must make or projects they must oversee, effective leaders instill confidence in their actions by exhibiting confidence. If you are seeking leadership positions you must first show potential employers that you are comfortable in the role of a leader. I am not saying you have to know all the answers or every little step you will take as a leader. What I am saying is, win or lose, you have to show those around you that you are in control and they can depend on your leadership.
Knowledge of Resource Function
The musician knew how each sound producing element worked. He understood the resource's capability, strength, and function. In order to be a leader in the workplace, you should possess a knowledge and understanding of how the resources within your industry work. What elements can you use to reach a goal? How well do these elements work together? When is the appropriate time to bring in certain resources? Whether it be machinery, employees, services, or money, leaders must go above and beyond to expand their knowledge on resource function.
You may know your job well, but do you know how your department functions and how that department fits into the division, and how the division works within the organization to meet company goals. Do not get complacent in being able to work well within your environment. Take the steps to see the bigger picture and develop a broader understanding of the entire company and its goals and challenges. Great leaders are expected to know how to pull resources together in any situation and achieve success.
Meet and Navigate Challenges
At one point in the video, around point 2:52, something occurred that stopped the music and caused the musician to say "Oh crap." When I first watched this video I didn't realize there was a hiccup. It was during my second viewing that I noticed that there may have been a problem with the production.
As a potential workplace leader, you should have a capacity for meeting challenges and ensuring that operations continue to run smoothly. The musician never missed a beat. He was able to pick right up with the production and keep the project moving smoothly.
Notice I continue to say smoothly. It is important for a leader to keep command of his/her ship and not upset the process when a problem occurs. Develop a plan for meeting challenges whether it be calling on others or taking on additional responsibilities until the challenge has been met and overcome. The most important thing is to remain in control and reduce the effects of the problem(s).
Although there are many more factors in becoming a workplace leader, abiding by these principles can help you go a long way. Take the time to invest in yourself by improving your skill set. It will likely pay off in the end.
As a career coach, I meet people in various stages of their career from entry level to executive leadership. More often than not I will encounter someone who is looking to climb an industry ladder seeking roles such as manager, supervisor, director, etc. Before my clients begin the process of career elevation I ask them one simple question: Do you understand the principles needed for workplace leadership?
Back to the video and what I observed. The clip shows a professional who:
1) has mastered the skills needed to produce a quality end product.
2) possesses a high-level of confidence.
3) is knowledgeable and understanding of each resource function.
4) is capable of meeting and navigating challenges.
Master the Skills
It is safe to assume from the video that this is not the musician's first time producing loop music. He has spent time mastering the skills needed to play the trombone, hear and read music, and operate the equipment. It is unlikely that he walked in one day with the level of skill it takes to reproduce Pharrell's "Happy" song in this manner and make it sound so close to the original.
You should understand that leadership roles do not always happen overnight. Most jobs require employees to put in time and work before they take on leadership positions. Employers are looking for applicants who have taken the time to hone their skills through experience and are able to produce quality results.
For example, an employer hiring sales managers is likely looking for someone who can lead and mentor others on fundamental sales skills. Sales leaders generally have an in-depth understanding and practice of sales tactics such as cold-calling, networking, and presentation skills. The effectiveness of their sales techniques is shown in their sales numbers over a period of time. As a leader, a person serving as a sales manager must display a master level skill set that has been successful for his/her employer. The point being, workplace leadership does not always happen quickly and usually requires you, the applicant, to sharpen your skills.
High-level of Confidence
Did you notice how relaxed the musician was in the video? He knew just when each new layer of sound needed to come in and he was not hesitant in his actions. He had several effects going at the same time, yet we didn't see him fumbling around trying to get things done. He handled each step with precision and confidence.
While I am sure many leaders stress out over the decisions they must make or projects they must oversee, effective leaders instill confidence in their actions by exhibiting confidence. If you are seeking leadership positions you must first show potential employers that you are comfortable in the role of a leader. I am not saying you have to know all the answers or every little step you will take as a leader. What I am saying is, win or lose, you have to show those around you that you are in control and they can depend on your leadership.
Knowledge of Resource Function
The musician knew how each sound producing element worked. He understood the resource's capability, strength, and function. In order to be a leader in the workplace, you should possess a knowledge and understanding of how the resources within your industry work. What elements can you use to reach a goal? How well do these elements work together? When is the appropriate time to bring in certain resources? Whether it be machinery, employees, services, or money, leaders must go above and beyond to expand their knowledge on resource function.
You may know your job well, but do you know how your department functions and how that department fits into the division, and how the division works within the organization to meet company goals. Do not get complacent in being able to work well within your environment. Take the steps to see the bigger picture and develop a broader understanding of the entire company and its goals and challenges. Great leaders are expected to know how to pull resources together in any situation and achieve success.
Meet and Navigate Challenges
At one point in the video, around point 2:52, something occurred that stopped the music and caused the musician to say "Oh crap." When I first watched this video I didn't realize there was a hiccup. It was during my second viewing that I noticed that there may have been a problem with the production.
As a potential workplace leader, you should have a capacity for meeting challenges and ensuring that operations continue to run smoothly. The musician never missed a beat. He was able to pick right up with the production and keep the project moving smoothly.
Notice I continue to say smoothly. It is important for a leader to keep command of his/her ship and not upset the process when a problem occurs. Develop a plan for meeting challenges whether it be calling on others or taking on additional responsibilities until the challenge has been met and overcome. The most important thing is to remain in control and reduce the effects of the problem(s).
Although there are many more factors in becoming a workplace leader, abiding by these principles can help you go a long way. Take the time to invest in yourself by improving your skill set. It will likely pay off in the end.
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