12 tips for emerging leaders

How do young professionals get connected to the community and how can you truly make an impact?

This thought consumed me when I moved to the Corridor in 2005 as a young professional. I didn't know anyone in the area. I'd always been an introvert, but to succeed in my new career I needed to step out of my comfort zone and get networked in the community.

My first priority was to get connected to the community in a meaningful way. Three organizations gravitated to the top of my list - the Chamber of Commerce for its relationship with the business community, Rotary Club for its motto of 'service above self” and United Way for its commitment to addressing community issues. I involved myself with these organizations and worked to be an active volunteer. These organizations are comprised of influential community and business leaders, and I quickly found myself acquiring lots of great new contacts.

Building on the confidence I was developing and wanting to continue to grow my network, I participated in the Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce's Community Leadership Program and the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance's Leadership for Five Seasons Program. These programs offer incredible opportunities to interact with local leaders and gain a deeper understanding of the issues our community faces.

I then discovered EPIC and ImpactCR, two organizations that support the next generation of leaders by connecting young professionals to the community through professional, social and civic events. Through these groups, I got involved with the Next Gen. Summit, a leadership conference that inspires and empowers young professionals. These organizations provided an opportunity to improve the following skills - communication, facilitation, organization, team-building and networking.

As I reflect on my first 10 years in the Corridor, I've seen firsthand how connecting to the community and taking on leadership roles has allowed me to grow professionally and shape the person I am today. I'm no longer sitting on the sideline and watching the world go by. I'm now an active participant in making change happen and involved with several exciting community projects.

For many young professionals though, career and family obligations place limitations on the amount of free hours available within the day. For others, they don't see a tangible benefit and are worried that volunteering will take time away time from their job. But my experience has been that the more you give, both personally and professionally, the more you receive back.

I firmly believe that being a community volunteer and assuming leadership roles is one of the best and most effective ways to build your career and stand out among your peers, and below are 12 insights for young professionals wanting to start their journey.

1. The Corridor offers a wide variety of ways to get involved, several of them mentioned above, so take advantage of these opportunities.

2. The old school business model, such as How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie, still is relevant today.

3. Find a mentor. Don't be afraid to ask them tough questions.

4. Step out of your comfortable zone and challenge yourself to try new things.

5. Don't overcommit but rather find a few organizations you're passionate about and give them your full attention

6. Embrace change. It's the only constant in life.

7. Treat everyone with respect.

8. Get to meetings early, listen carefully, respect others' opinions and provide thoughtful feedback.

9. Be present in your conversations and don't let technology constantly distract you.

10. Know your strengths, be authentic and genuine.

11. Communication skills are critical so join a Toastmasters Club.

12. Finally, give back your time, talent, and treasures to support this great community that provides so much to you.

' Eric Weiler, annual giving officer for Kirkwood Community College, volunteers with multiple local organizations to help make the Corridor a better place to live, work, and raise a family. Comments: eweiler@kirkwood.edu