You want to lead. But you don’t yet have the title. So how can you show up as a leader at work—without being too obvious or pushy?

Here are seven practical ways to position yourself as a leader from wherever you are:

1. Own It

Leadership starts with ownership. If your name is on the project—even in a small way—take responsibility for the outcome. Own the wins and the mistakes. Admitting fault doesn’t make you weak; it makes you real. Leaders grow by learning from missteps.

2. Think Win-Win

Leaders don’t climb by stepping on others. They rise by lifting everyone around them. Reject the “dog-eat-dog” mindset. Believe in collaboration, not manipulation. Your influence matters—and your example can shape your team culture for the better.

3. Stretch Yourself

Step outside your comfort zone. Volunteer for the project nobody wants. Test a new approach. Yes, it might feel awkward or even risky—but that’s where leadership lives. Leaders aren’t afraid to act on what they believe, even if it means stumbling along the way.

4. Act, Then Document

Ideas are cheap. Action is rare. Be the one who does, not just talks. Then take it further—write it down. Draft the plan. Capture the insight. Share it. When you document your thinking, you create clarity, visibility, and momentum.

5. Spot Everyday Opportunities

You don’t have to wait for a leadership job posting. Opportunities to lead are everywhere—if you're paying attention. See a gap? Step in. See a need? Fill it. Leaders rise by showing up where others hesitate.

6. Seek Feedback Relentlessly

Feedback fuels growth. Don’t just accept it—ask for it. Be open to input, even when it stings. The best ideas might come from people smarter than you, or from unexpected places. A real leader is always learning, never “feed-owning” (yes, let’s coin that: living off your own stale ideas!).

7. Give Generously

Share your ideas. Offer your help. Support your team. Vulnerability isn’t weakness—it’s leadership in motion. When you give freely, you invite input, spark collaboration, and create space for better ideas to emerge. The more you give, the more you grow.

Final Thought: Want to be seen as a leader at work? Take risks. Show up. Speak up. Give more than you take. You don’t need the title to start leading—you just need the mindset and the willingness to act.

Curt Skene
FOUNDER
Career Network Club