Thirty-year-old Rucha has worked in the tech industry for eight years, starting off as a junior engineer and moving up to become a software professional. Recognising the need to stay updated with ever-changing technology, she decided to switch roles after seven years.
Upon embarking on a rigorous journey of self-improvement, she delved into intensive study sessions, honing her skills and improving her knowledge to position herself for the transition.
Rucha says, ’As techies, we are always expected to not just stay updated with current and existing technologies, but also anticipate and prepare for the market shifts that could reshape the industry landscape.’ She realises the need to stay ahead of the curve and forecast the technological horizon.
Rucha spent six months improving her interview skills, and felt prepared for the challenges that lay ahead. However, as she navigated through a series of interviews, she realised that her proficiency in technology was unquestionable, but she needed better leadership skills even though she hadn't had much experience in that area. To learn leadership, she looked for opportunities outside her job.

Himani Mathreja, Sr HR Generalist who works for a tech company, says ‘Leadership skills are not solely cultivated within the confines of a workplace. Despite extensive experience, candidates lack practical leadership exposure, which makes it difficult for them to get their desired roles. To fill this void, they have the option to build those skillsets outside of their workplace’.
She speaks about how the journey towards becoming an effective leader often extends beyond regular office hours. Whether you're seeking a promotion, contemplating a career shift, or simply aspiring to enhance your personal development, gaining leadership experience outside of work can be a transformative and fulfilling endeavour.

Himani suggests exploring these strategies, which can help you unlock your leadership potential beyond the traditional work setting.
1. Volunteer opportunities: One of the most enriching and significant ways to acquire leadership expertise beyond the workplace is by actively participating in a cause that resonates with you. Non-profit organisations, community groups, and charities are always in need of dedicated individuals to lead initiatives.

Through volunteering, you can hone essential skills like communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and project management. Moreover, volunteering provides a platform to showcase your leadership capabilities to prospective employers who highly value socially responsible and engaged candidates.
2. Join clubs and organisations: Another avenue for acquiring leadership skills beyond the workplace involves becoming a part of a professional or community organisation that resonates with your aspirations. Many cities have clubs, societies, or meet-up groups focused on various interests. Within these organisations, you can actively pursue leadership roles, whether it is through committee participation, board membership, council involvement, or taking charge of projects and events.

3. Participate in leadership training programmes: Look for workshops, seminars, or training programmes designed to enhance leadership skills. Many organisations and educational institutions offer such programmes outside of regular working hours. These sessions often provide practical insights, tools, and frameworks that can be applied both in and outside of the workplace.
4. Start your own project: A third way to gain leadership experience outside of work is to start a side project or launch your own initiative to showcase your creativity, passion, or expertise. Whether it's a community project, a blog, or a small business, it can help you develop skills such as planning, execution, marketing, and evaluation. Navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship fosters resilience, decision-making, and strategic thinking – all crucial aspects of effective leadership.

5. Mentorship and coaching: A fifth way to gain leadership experience outside of work is to seek a mentor or coach who can guide you, support you, and challenge you. A mentor or coach is someone who has more experience, knowledge, or skills than you, and who can offer you advice, feedback, and resources.
6. Participate in recreational sports: Sports are a great way to develop teamwork, communication, and leadership skills. Joining a sports team or even organising friendly matches with friends can help you understand the dynamics of leadership in a different context.

7. Online platforms and social media: Utilise online platforms and social media to showcase your leadership skills. Starting a blog, participating in online forums, or creating content that reflects your expertise, can attract attention and open up opportunities for leadership roles.