The following article discusses themes of assertion and confidence to suggest how to lead a team effectively.

Introduction

Leadership is a broad spectrum; it comes in many forms, but the most important trait of any leadership style is assertiveness, the ability to clearly communicate your wants, needs, positions, and boundaries to others. Without fail, leaders will struggle with being assertive at the beginning of their leadership journey. If they never learn the value of assertive leadership, they may struggle as long as they lead. This leads us to the important question: Why do we shy away from assertive leadership?

Issue

To clarify, I’ll explain why a lack of assertion can destroy a leader and their team. Imagine: It’s the end of the year and the leadership list came out, you’re Battery Captain! Congratulations, the hard part is over, right? Unfortunately not. At this point, many brand-new leaders will fall into limbo – not a regular member, but also not quite a leader yet. 

More often than not, the team will immediately sense the Captain’s weakness. They will use this period of limbo to test their new leader, pushing every button to see how far they can go. A leader struggling with assertion will let them get away with this, keeping their mouth shut in many situations they shouldn’t, until the team becomes completely out of control. The leader may try to fix their naive mistake, but will likely fail every time: It’s too late. 

Now, we arrive back to the original question: Why do we shy away? The overarching reason is fear. People often see assertiveness as pushy or annoying, therefore many leaders fear being seen as a dictator. More specifically, if the leader has made friends with their constituents, they will likely fear losing them. Personal fears can also contribute, a new leader can feel insecure or lack confidence in their leadership, resulting in a timid and passive leadership style. So, how can we do better?

Solutions

According to John C. Maxwell, a leadership author and speaker, there are Five Levels of Leadership. I propose that following these levels and being dedicated to building upon them will slowly but surely create an amazing leader. 

Level One: Position explains that once you are elected to a position, people will listen to you because you are in a position of power. The most important part of this level is understanding your roles and responsibilities inside and out so you can prepare for the next part. 

Level Two: Permission is about relationships. At this level, a strong relationship must be created with your team so that they want you to lead them. This level can be tricky, but it must be achieved to move on to the next. It is important to connect with your team through bonding and events but also to have emotional connections. 

Level Three: Production is extremely important in the marching world. Members will follow a leader who has reached Level Three because of their results. It is important to ensure success to the extent of your power. In other words, sound good, look good, and win. Members will see these results and respect you that much more.

Level Four: People Development is just as important, help your members become leaders themselves. Most importantly, connect with them personally to ensure they grow to be good members and people. As a result, people will follow you because of how you helped them personally.

Level Five: Pinnacle is the final combination of each level. At this point, you’ve become so successful that there is no question in your members’ minds. You’ve got the position, the relationships, the results, and the developments. What more is there to ask?

Questions and Challenges

The harsh truth is that leadership is not easy. It’s actually really hard. It may not seem that way from the outside, you may watch your section leader and think “He sure is bad at this… I could totally do it.” But…

Leadership takes intense preparation and dedication that not everyone possesses. Before you take on a big leadership role, truly consider what your motivation is: Why do you want to be a leader? Is it because you want to help people? Change the way things have been? Or maybe just so you can look good for your college application? Decide whether your “why” is an accurate reflection of your character. Decide if you’re truly the right person for the job. Decide if you’ll put in the extra work and sacrifice yourself for your team. Most importantly, decide on these factors before you commit to a position.  

Don’t hear this and shy away, hear my words and fight back. Fight against anyone arguing you can’t be a leader, even if it is yourself. Becoming a good leader takes time, and we don’t have a lot of it. It’s a lot of pressure, especially as a high-school student. But unfortunately, it’s the business we’re in. Know what you want and prepare yourself far in advance.  

Conclusion

My final advice is compiled in the following points:

• • Be confident and lead by example. Give your constituents a role model and a voice to listen to.

• Serve your team. Your goal as a leader is to ensure your team succeeds and thrives. Remember that.

• • If not already appointed, recruit help. You can’t do everything alone. 
  • Your members want to be led effectively. Don’t fear being seen as a dictator.
  • Get personal with your members if they allow you. Let them know you’re a person too.
  • Think about the future. Decide whether your current decisions will benefit the team more in the moment or at the end of the season. 
  • Leadership is hard. Don’t expect it to be easy. Fully prepare yourself and decide whether you truly want to take the position.
  • Find a mentor. It could be a staff member, or someone you know, but find someone to talk with about your feelings and choices related to your team. 
  • Don’t let others take you down. Become a leader on your terms. 

• Learn and accept criticism. You can always learn, even from someone under you. Continue to research leadership throughout your journey.

• Separate your “work” and life. Have the ability to lead your team at practice, but still hang out with them after. Don’t hold grudges.

And most importantly… Communicate effectively. Share your vision and your plans with your team. You don’t have to tell them everything, but don’t shut them out. Never forget that you are a member before a leader. 

Actions for the Future

Consider accessing the resources linked throughout this article, as well as the videos I will link below. Additionally, do your own research. Access books and articles, but also talk to your mentors and staff about any questions or struggles you may have. The following are additional video resources that develop the points I made:

• The #1 Mistake You Make When Trying To Be Liked
• Kobe Bryant on Leadership
• What Makes a Leader Great?
• Leadership: The Difference Between Aggression and Assertiveness

Thank you to those reading my article, for I am infinitely grateful. Feel free to check out the articles from my peers, as they cover more topics you may be interested in. In finale, be undeniably great.