Everyone knows that following the right leader can lead to twice the results with half the effort, but finding the right leader is not that easy. Everyone wants to follow the right leader, but which leader is the right one? Moreover, leaders are not someone you can just choose to follow; to follow the right leader, you must first achieve these four points.
First, become the right person.
Many people complain about not encountering the right leader and feel unable to follow the right leader like others do to advance smoothly. However, if you think this way, you are missing the point because the right leader is never found by luck but is recognized through your performance, making them willing to promote you. Thus, they will become the right leader.
In other words, to follow the right leader, you must first become the right person. You need to demonstrate the ability that makes leaders willing to give you opportunities. If you do nothing and oppose the leader, then the leaders you encounter will all be the bad ones you complain about.
Second, adapt to the leader's style.
Becoming excellent is the foundation for encountering the right leader, but that is not enough. There are many excellent people; why do others meet the right leaders while you do not? It depends on whether you can adapt to the leader's style. Each leader has a different style, and if you cannot understand and adapt to their management style, you won't even have the chance to get close to them and may even create conflicts.
Third, take the initiative to approach the leader.
To follow the right leader, in addition to the previous two factors, you must also take the initiative to approach the leader. This is particularly important. Even if you are very capable and adapt to the leader's style, if you do not take the initiative to approach them, will the leader trust you? Of course not; this is a very simple principle.
Approaching the leader is also straightforward: report your work to the leader more often, let them know your attitude, and help them understand you. This way, you can establish a foundation of mutual trust, and the leader will assign important tasks to you, thereby promoting you.
Fourth, dare to express your ideas.
In the workplace, do not think that you are the only one wanting to develop; do not think that you are the only one approaching the leader. Other colleagues, like you, also want to be the leader's person, and they may be even more dedicated and hardworking than you. At this point, you must dare to express your ideas to the leader and hope to take on more responsibilities. You should know that you are all on the same team; if you propose ideas, the leader will recognize that you have thoughts and will prioritize you when opportunities arise.