Use stress to your advantage

A stressful day could be the chance to prove your office potential, according to The Muse. Instead of letting the pressure get to you, realise that the storm will pass and making the most of the madness could be the key to climbing the career ladder. Encouraging people to stay ‘positive and productive’ through the tougher times, The Muse’s Richard Moy compiled his top tips for turning a hard day’s work into a way to show off your skills.

Blow off steam
Taking time out of the day for you and your team to discuss problems, identify what’s working and what isn’t can really make a difference to your workday. As well as validating your concerns by bringing them up with colleagues, putting your concerns into words can help you understand the issues and realise where the flaws lie. Arranging group discussions can also show off your leadership skills to managers, emphasising your ability to perform under pressure.

Open up
When things aren’t going to plan, don’t hide your concerns. Don’t get frustrated or angry, but also try not to hide the problems you’re facing. Full disclosure with your team will not only gain you more respect as someone able to admit when they’re struggling, a colleague could reveal a fix you weren’t aware of. Letting other members of your team know when issues arise will let them know that you’re someone to turn to when they also have issues, further exhibiting your ability to lead.

Listen to others
When managing a team, it’s important to know you’re approachable. Talking less and listening more is key to not seeming too forceful and welcoming other people’s opinions. When things begin to get stressful and everyone is trying to weigh in on the situation, try giving other people a chance to speak and avoid the instinct to immediately take centre stage. Leadership is about more than just making speeches, and bosses will recognise when you choose to speak and when you choose to listen.

What do you look for in leadership? How do you turn trouble into opportunity? Let us know on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn.