Impact of Effective Leaders by Alexis

Impact of Effective Leaders by Alexis - May 2024 Scholarship Essay

Effective leaders possess a wide range of characteristics and traits that set them apart from others and allow them to succeed and excel. These attributes are not only valuable in a work or school environment, but also in daily life. The ability to communicate is a huge skill that is necessary when needing to share ideas or listen to others views and opinions. Decisiveness is also a huge part of being a leader, along with as confidence in yourself and your decisions. Leaders need to be able to make tough decisions in challenging circumstances and be confident in that. Adaptability, resilience, and accountability are very important as well. Effective leaders need to have the ability to adjust to setbacks when needed and take responsibility for their actions and the outcomes of their decisions. Throughout high school, I have had several opportunities to be a leader.
Beginning in 2022, I have been a part of my class’s student council. I serve as the reporter for my class. As reporter, my duty is to create an inclusive social atmosphere and ensure that class activities reach a wide range of students. This includes working with others to carry out pep rallies, complete the yearbook, and complete bulletin boards that reflect activities of the class. Being a part of student council, I have to work closely with the other members, as well as the student body, sharing my ideas and opinions. Another leadership position I hold is within my school’s FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America) chapter. In. In my chapter, I also serve as reporter, where my job is to create frequent reports for the local, regional, and state newsletters. I also work alongside other officers to make group decisions for the well-being of our chapter.
The career that I plan to pursue is one in accounting/finance. Within a job like this, there are several ways one can make an impact as a leader, whether it be within relationships, communication, goals, or tasks. Building strong relationships with your coworkers creates a level of trust and respect that is necessary when in a leadership position. The ability to communicate and actively listen effectively is also crucial in these relationships. Being open with conversation, providing feedback, and keeping your coworkers informed about important developments and changes within the company are just a few things that can be done. When communicating with others, clear achievable goals and boundaries need to be set in order to accomplish objectives. This allows others to understand their roles and do their part as needed. As noticed, leadership plays a crucial role in the success of various different settings. Being a leader isn’t just about the title, it’s about what it can do for the good of the group. Whether it be within relationships, small school activities, or through a career, leadership is the fundamental driver of advancement.
My Grandma was a prime example of a great leader in my life. She always dreamed of owning the small country convenience store right down the road from our house. She made her dreams a reality, when she purchased it over 20 years ago. The leadership that she used running the store daily was a great example set for myself. From working daily, hiring workers, communicating with vendors, to all the behind the scenes bookwork she showed me what a good leader was. She worked 364 days a year building what she loved. Many stressful days and sleepless nights, but the perseverance always pulled her through. Unfortunately, she passed a couple years ago, but left me with the perfect vision of what a great business woman with impeccable leadership skills was. I am forever grateful for my time spent with her and the many life teaching moments we had there.