Leadership is the ability to inspire and influence others to focus their efforts towards achieving a specific goal. Effective leadership requires several attributes, such as communication, empathy and self-awareness.

While some people are naturally strong in these areas, anyone is capable of becoming a great leader with the right training and mindset — including you.

There are many opportunities available to international students in Victoria to help develop leadership skills including Study Melbourne’s free regular programs and events. Make sure you also check out your own institution's offerings as well as community organisations.

Eager to begin your leadership journey? Here is what you need to know.

What are the traits of a leader?

Because leadership is a learned skill, there are both good and bad leaders — but how can you spot the difference between the two?

Good leaders are resilient and positive, working to uplift the people around them. They have a clear vision and communicate it effectively, so everyone knows the part they play in achieving a goal. Good leaders also take the time to nurture the talents and celebrate the achievements of the people they lead.

Signs of a bad leader could include a lack of credibility or integrity, poor communication skills or an overt focus on their own reputation.

Levels of leadership

When it comes to leadership in the workplace, this skill can serve both you and your employer at every stage of your life and career.

For example, before you even begin your career, you can exercise leadership in extracurricular activities, such as captaining a sports team, taking on a committee position in a student club or delegating tasks for a group assignment.

There are also many types of leaders within the workplace. Entry-level employees can demonstrate leadership by showing initiatives, maintaining a positive attitude and setting an example for others in their teams. Senior managers often show leadership in more tangible ways, such as taking responsibility for the delegation of tasks and the successful execution of a project.

How to develop your leadership skills

Now that you have a baseline understanding of leadership, here are some tips for becoming a better leader.

Engage in lifelong learning

From advancements in technology to increased globalisation, the world is changing faster than ever — and effective leaders need to keep up.

One key way of doing this is committing to continuous learning. By consistently seeking out new knowledge and skills, you can stay up to date on the latest innovations, adapt to changing environments and carve the path for those you lead.

Look for workshops and events offered by your education provider, community organisations and study bodies. Study Melbourne Leadership Labs is a program designed to develop the leadership skills and growth mindsets of international students in Melbourne and regional Victoria. Leadership Labs includes a series of webinars, online workshops, networking events and project-based activities throughout the academic year.

These sessions and events are free for current international students and recent graduates to attend - perfect for a student budget. Please check the event listing on our website for next Leaderships Labs event you can attend.

Take opportunities to grow

Good leaders know that their professional development is never finished. With this in mind, ensure that you are embracing growth opportunities at every stage of your leadership journey.

For example, you might want to offer to lead a group assignment at university or a project at your workplace. Volunteering or joining a student club can also provide you with an outlet to develop your leadership abilities.

If leadership opportunities do not seem to present themselves, seek them out. Take the initiative to speak to your manager or lecturer and tell them that you are interested in growing as a leader. They may be able to identify or create opportunities you may not have known about previously.

Find a mentor

Sometimes, it can be easier to understand what good leadership looks like when you see it in someone else.

Find out if your university, place of study or local community has an industry mentoring program. These are a great way of connecting with professionals from industries you are interested in. In the workplace, ask a colleague or manager whom you admire if they would be willing to chat with you about their leadership journey and offer tips.

You can also seek out industry leaders on platforms like LinkedIn. Follow them to stay up to date on sector trends and gain insights into their leadership style. If you feel comfortable, you can even engage with them directly by commenting on one of their posts or sending them a message requesting an informational interview.