No matter what level your leadership responsibilities fall under there are a few important guidelines, organising and preparation that must be followed to be a successful leader.

There are several stages one goes through in preparation to taking over leadership roles. The first passage is normally a transitional stage. This stage is usually one of the easier stages because you are expected to have hiccups at this stage. You will not be judged too harshly by superiors, as this is usually a trial and error period -- a time when you are learning the ropes per se as the new leader.

Depending on the type of business, the transitional period can be years in terms of length but the norm is usually a six to three months probationary period. Both parties before its inception should properly negotiate the length of the probation time, taking carefully into consideration the following: Prior experience and training for the position; Additional training required; Scope of responsibilities; Extent of duties; and Number of employees need to be supervised.

During this crucial time, the new leader should carefully prioritise the expected duties and goals, making sure the controlling authority factor is in line with the style of leadership required by the organisation directors. A common complaint of upper management by subordinates is that the new leader has forgotten how to communicate. The closed door leader/manager may get the privacy needed but also make the grave risk of being out of the mainstream of what's going on outside.

Another mistake new leaders make is working shorter days, taking longer lunch breaks and staying away from the office for long periods at a time. If you think the previous 50 odd hours worked to get into this new leadership position was well worth it and a common 9-4 workday inclusive of a 1-2:30 lunch is rightful now, my humble suggestion is that you have a good laugh at the person in the mirror. Stop this misconception immediately before it becomes habitual.

The reality check for a new leader can include the following: Extended work hours -- 60 hours per week; and Working weekends, public holidays. etc.

Remember extending time away from the office; especially in the transitional stage is dangerous from the standpoint that it is not looked on favorably with the board of directors nor your team members. You can end up losing respect, from both parties, for your leadership style and quality. A leader's presence is a given requirement in any successful business endeavour.

Effective leadership requires sacrifice and hard work, which is what any successful leader will tell you, is the secret to success. Leading others is a privilege earned and maintaining that privilege is simple: lead within your aims and objectives, guidelines and goals.

Cindy Swan is a Professional Organiser with over 20 years of office administrative managerial experience and a member of the National Association of Professional Organizers. Address inquiries to Cindy Swan, PO Box 304 St.

George's GEBX or email her at organize yibl.bm