[intense_blockquote width=”33%” rightalign=”1″]Maybe you are not in a position to lead. Does this mean that leadership is out the window? Certainly not.[/intense_blockquote]

Short and sweet this quarter because I am busy leading TWO live teams–one on an Orals 14-day turn and another $350M IDIQ! Not to mention my “home team”–my family. When leading teams, communication is key. Being in lock-step with your Capture Manager (or significant other!) creates an allied force that helps to foster stability and a solid base for others to stand and piggy-back on as we move through a rigorous process, deadlines, and activities all while maintaining a healthy group dynamic with various personalities, strengths, and weaknesses.

As a Proposal Manager, having confidence is of the utmost importance. I like my team to know they can trust me and that I will follow through with my commitments and show leadership through my attitude and actions with the idea of leading by example.  Deadlines and clear expectations are also paramount. Holding everyone accountable for their parts and explaining what you need from each of them shows your commitment as a leader to keeping the project on track and ensures that what you receive from each contributor will be closely aligned with the requirements and what you need.

Maybe you are not in a position to lead. Does this mean that leadership is out the window? Certainly not. Exhibiting good leadership qualities such as meeting deadlines, being a top contributor, making suggestions and offering to help others on the team, and holding yourself and your work to a high regard is just as important as any leadership role.

Team dynamics are always changing. If you are a Proposal Manager, you will work with teams across a broad scope of services throughout the company. Even if it is a team you have worked with before, your team members are human and inevitably have all sorts of things going on in their lives. Building extra room in your schedule, maintaining creativity in your mindset, and holding empathy in your heart will allow you to be an effective leader and gain the respect from all you collaborate with.

If you are ready for the next step in your leadership journey, we invite you to nominate yourself for a position on our board! I am happy to answer any questions you might have and would love for you to become a part of our APMP-NCA Board family.

Yours in success,

Rebecca

Author

  • Rebecca Link

    Rebecca Link, CP APMP, President, APMP-NCA. Prior to joining the industry ten years ago, Rebecca completed her Master’s degree in Public Administration and has since fast-tracked her growth to become a Sr. Proposal Manager and Orals Coach at GDIT. She has served on the Board for the NCA Chapter for four years, most recently supporting as Chapter President, and she has played an integral role in leading the chapter’s functions and improving member benefits and board processes. In 2017, she received the award for “Up and Coming Board Member” and was named one of APMP’s Top 40 Under 40. A member of APMP for nine years, Rebecca has her Practitioner Level Certification.

    View all posts