Week 6 has now passed, and with it, new memories have been made. Thursday was the 4th of July so as good Americans we had to celebrate despite what our work schedules said. Saturday we went on a tour into Northern Ireland to see several Game of Thrones filming locations, and a Hurling match between Limerick and Cork on Sunday.
Before starting my internship at Online Application in Dublin, I already had a solid foundation in leadership thanks to my two years of experience in the Air Force. My leadership style was largely shaped by the structured, disciplined, and hierarchical environment of the military. I was used to clear chains of command, direct communication, and a focus on efficiency and precision. However, my time as an intern at a dynamic fintech startup has challenged and broadened my perspective on leadership in ways I hadn’t anticipated.
In the Air Force, my leadership style was authoritative yet supportive. I believed in giving clear, concise instructions and setting high standards for myself and those I led. Accountability, discipline, and quick decision-making were paramount. I also valued teamwork and took pride in fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual support among my peers. This approach served me well in the military, where clarity and decisiveness can be a matter of life and death.
Stepping into the role of an intern at Online Application has been a stark contrast to my previous leadership experiences. The startup environment is far more fluid and less structured than the military. Here, innovation, flexibility, and a collaborative spirit are key. This shift has presented several challenges to my established views and approaches to leadership.
1. Embracing Flexibility and Adaptability: In a startup, change is constant. Project goals can shift rapidly based on market trends, client feedback, or technological advancements. Initially, this lack of fixed structure was disorienting. I had to let go of my reliance on strict schedules and predefined roles and learn to adapt quickly to new circumstances. This experience has taught me that effective leadership sometimes means being comfortable with ambiguity and being ready to pivot when necessary.
2. Fostering Open Communication: In the military, communication is often direct and hierarchical. However, at Online Application, I’ve learned the value of open, two-way communication. Encouraging team members to voice their ideas, concerns, and feedback has been crucial. This inclusive communication style not only fosters innovation but also builds a sense of trust and collaboration within the team. I’ve had to practice active listening and ensure that my responses are constructive and supportive.
3. Encouraging Creativity and Innovation: In the startup world, creativity is as important as efficiency. Encouraging my team members to think outside the box and explore new ideas has been a learning curve. This approach contrasts with the more regimented problem-solving methods I was used to. I’ve learned to create an environment where experimentation is welcomed, and failures are seen as learning opportunities rather than setbacks.
Becoming a Better Leader
This internship experience has significantly influenced my growth as a leader. Here are some ways I’m becoming a better leader as a result of this experience:
1. Balancing Authority with Collaboration: I’ve learned to balance authoritative leadership with a collaborative approach. While it’s sometimes necessary to make decisive calls, it’s equally important to involve team members in decision-making processes. This balance ensures that everyone feels valued and invested in the outcomes, leading to higher morale and better results.
2. Leading by Example: Leading by example has taken on new dimensions. In the military, this meant demonstrating discipline and commitment. At Online Application, it also means showing vulnerability, admitting when I don’t have all the answers, and being open to learning from others. This humility fosters a culture of continuous learning and mutual respect.
3. Enhancing Problem-Solving Skills: The dynamic nature of a startup has honed my problem-solving skills. I’ve learned to approach challenges with a creative mindset, considering multiple perspectives and potential solutions. This adaptability is crucial in a fast-paced environment where conventional solutions may not always apply.
Conclusion
My internship at Online Application has been an eye-opening journey in terms of leadership development. It has challenged my traditional views and pushed me to adapt to new ways of thinking and leading. By embracing flexibility, fostering open communication, and encouraging creativity, I’m becoming a more well-rounded and effective leader. This experience has not only broadened my leadership skills but also prepared me to navigate and thrive in diverse professional environments. As I continue to grow and learn, I’m excited to bring these enhanced leadership abilities back to the US and apply them in future roles.