7+ Ways To Prepare For A Public-Facing Leadership Role

Before you are a leader, success is all about growing yourself. When you become a leader, success is all about growing others.” —Jack Welch

More than two decades ago I started my first leadership role. Always facing an audience through years of athletic performance, the arts, other leadership roles, I was always confident. But this was different. In my HR Leadership role, I faced responsibilities on behalf of the company. No more hiding behind other senior leaders. My boss gave me no choice but to step up to my full responsibilities.

After going through a bout of nervousness that lasted months, I found that it got easier each time. Before long, I prepared for each meeting when I had to address employees performance, achievements and areas of development across the region with confidence.

On observation these days, we see politicians and society’s leaders in public service assuming new roles. Consequently, the question was raised; “can a person from behind the scenes excel in a new public-facing role?” The answer is absolutely!

Public-facing means a role where the (individual) exercises managerial authority or control of an entity’s activities.

Here are 7+ points to prepare for a public-facing leadership role. Focus on:

1.Communication Skills

• Develop clear, compelling public speaking abilities
• Practice articulating complex ideas simply
• Learn media training techniques

2.Personal Brand Development

• Build a professional, authentic public image
• Be consistent across different platforms
• Develop a strong personal narrative

3.Continuous Learning

• Stay updated on industry trends
• Understand diverse stakeholder perspectives
• Cultivate emotional intelligence

4.Professional Appearance

• Dress appropriately for your industry
• Project confidence through body language
• Work on your on-camera and in-person presence

5.Media and Presentation Preparation

• Take media training workshops
• Practice handling tough questions
• Learn crisis communication strategies

6.Networking

• Build relationships with key industry influencers
• Develop a supportive professional network
• Seek mentorship from experienced public leaders

7.Digital Literacy

• Manage social media presence professionally
• Understand digital communication etiquette
• Be mindful of online reputation

Bonus: Resilience and Adaptability

• Develop thick skin for public scrutiny
• Learn to handle criticism constructively
• Maintain composure under pressure

Consistent practice and self-reflection are the keys to becoming an effective public-facing leader.

What has been your experience with getting ready for a leadership role? Did you use any of the above strategies? If so, what worked for you? Any other strategy that comes to mind? Do share, we would love to hear.

Cheers!