Leadership Vertigo

The US Commercial Service outlines leadership in two ways, as a formal power structure and an informal focus on building highly effective teams. 

As part of a large Federal Agency with international reach, formal leadership comes in the form of centers of authority and is structured in a top down hierarchy with clearly defined memberships (i.e. pay grades, titles, citizenship, etc.) at every level. This structure allows for good organization and efficient organizational steering towards fulfilling the goals of the Administration.  

Informally however, leadership at the US Commercial Service has been less formulaic and much more dynamic. Leadership has entailed taking initiative, supporting our team, and above all advancing the mission of our agency. At our organization leadership isn’t hoarded by a few individuals, it is shared and encouraged. Day in and day out, the only reminder that I am not officially part of the organization is absence of a paycheck. Otherwise, I am able to exhibit ownership and discretion over my own portfolio of exporters and have the ability to build relationships with our domestic and international partners and counterparts as if I was an International Trade Specialist. 

My opinion is valued and my work recognized on a daily basis. This allows me to feel comfortable in sharing my opinion over matters as insignificant as the language and presentation of outgoing media to how I would address an issue with a partnering exporter. 

A large part of this internship has also been about enhancing my leadership skills and contributing to my professional growth. My office Director has become a mentor and has effortlessly exhibited qualities I admire most in leaders. Authenticity, accessibility, expertise, and humility. The added value of these qualities have permeated the office as trust and transparency between staff and have extended throughout the professional community who treat even interns with the upmost respect and attention. 

Going into this internship I expected to spot and be subject to formal leadership. While I’ve been able to spot it, Leadership in that sense hasn’t been very significant. What has been much more significant has been changing my perspective to understand the idiosyncrasies leadership takes on when instead of being hoarded, is shared amongst a group of highly effective and complementary individuals.