Hands sort through shirts on hangers on a closet rod.

As a municipal clerk, your leadership style can significantly impact your effectiveness and the overall functioning of your local government. Here’s how you can discover and refine your leadership approach:

Assess Your Natural Tendencies

Consider how you typically handle situations:

  • Do you prefer to involve your team in decision-making?

  • Are you more comfortable making quick decisions on your own?

  • How do you inspire and motivate your staff?

Your answers can indicate whether you lean towards a democratic, autocratic, or transformational leadership style.

Evaluate Your Strengths

Municipal clerks need a diverse set of skills. Reflect on your strongest attributes:

  • Communication skills

  • Organizational abilities

  • Problem-solving capabilities

  • Emotional intelligence

Your unique combination of strengths will influence your leadership style.

Consider Your Environment

The size and culture of your municipality can affect which leadership style works best:

  • Smaller towns may require more hands-on, versatile leadership

  • Larger cities might benefit from a more delegative approach

Adapt your style to fit your specific municipal context.

Seek Feedback and Mentorship

  • Ask colleagues and supervisors for honest feedback on your leadership

  • Connect with experienced municipal clerks through professional associations

  • Consider pursuing certifications like Certified Municipal Clerk (CMC) or Master Municipal Clerk (MMC) to enhance your leadership skills

Experiment with Different Approaches

Try incorporating elements of various leadership styles:

  • Democratic: Involve your team in decision-making processes

  • Transformational: Inspire your staff to exceed expectations and drive innovation

  • Adaptive: Adjust your approach based on the situation at hand

Remember, the most effective municipal clerks are those who can flex their leadership style to meet the diverse challenges of local government. By continually refining your approach, you’ll be better equipped to serve your community and lead your office effectively.