Leadership
Definition:
Recognize and capitalize on personal and team strengths to achieve organizational goals. Leadership involves inspiring others, taking initiative, adapting to change, and fostering a positive, collaborative environment.
Why It Matters
Leadership is a valuable skill that helps you motivate teams, manage projects, and drive results. According to NACE’s Job Outlook 2025 survey, 45% of employers consider leadership “very” or “extremely important,” yet only 31% believe graduates are proficient. Developing leadership skills can set you apart in academic, workplace, and professional settings.
Sample Behaviors
- Inspire, persuade, and motivate yourself and others under a shared vision.
- Seek out and use resources and feedback to inform direction.
- Apply innovative thinking to improve or go beyond traditional methods.
- Serve as a role model by approaching tasks with confidence and positivity.
- Motivate and encourage others, building mutual trust.
- Plan, initiate, manage, complete, and evaluate projects effectively.
What It Might Look Like in the Classroom
- Taking the lead on a group project and coordinating team efforts.
- Motivating peers during challenging assignments or deadlines.
- Seeking professor or peer feedback to strengthen leadership approaches.
- Organizing class or club activities that align with shared goals.
- Reflecting on successes and challenges in leadership roles for continuous growth.
1 Blog Post
