Confidence and Leadership in Evaluation by Sheena Yap Chan

Date: Saturday, November 23, 2024

Hi, I’m Sheena Yap Chan, I am a Wall Street Journal bestselling author, keynote speaker, consultant, and award-winning podcaster (The Tao of Self-Confidence), where I interview Asian women about their journeys to self-assurance. I am passionate about leadership development.

I’ve often wondered why some evaluators shy away from leadership roles, but I couldn’t pinpoint anything other than basic resentment—perhaps toward the pressure or the vulnerability that leadership brings. However, it’s this very vulnerability that can be a source of strength.

Building Confidence to Lead

Confidence is crucial for effective leadership, especially in the evaluation field. As evaluators, you don’t just assess programs, you must communicate findings persuasively to diverse audiences. Leadership in this context often means confidently presenting tough findings and supporting others in understanding the data.

Hot Tips for Evaluator Leaders

1. Welcome Feedback: Getting feedback from colleagues and mentors can boost both competence and confidence. Knowing your strengths and where you can improve makes you a more self-aware leader.
2. Embrace Vulnerability: True leadership is about authenticity, not perfection. Admitting what you don’t know encourages growth, builds trust, and promotes collaboration.
3. Acknowledge Success: Celebrating small successes can be key in boosting your confidence. Over time, these small victories compound and nurture your growth as a leader.

Rad Resources

• Leadership books such as “Dare to Lead” by Brené Brown focus on the value of vulnerability in leadership.
• Check out the AEA Leadership Institute, which offers workshops to help evaluators develop their leadership skills.
• See more of my perspectives on Leadership in Asian Women Who BossUp and The Tao of Self-Confidence: A Guide to Moving Beyond Trauma and Awakening the Leader Within

Building leadership confidence in evaluation requires continuous self-reflection, embracing vulnerability, and learning from every experience. This journey not only strengthens your own leadership but also empowers you to make a more significant impact in the communities you serve.

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