Leading Without Being The Leader
“A genuine leader is not a searcher for consensus, but a moulder of consensus.”?
— Martin Luther King Jr. during his speech “The Domestic Impact of War” in November 1967?
The ability to influence resonates when we hear that phrase, undoubtedly an essential characteristic of a great leader.?
It is important to realize that leaders influence a variety of outcomes. This includes turnover, customer satisfaction, sales, revenue, productivity, and so much more. So, while you’re leading, think about why, what, or who you are influencing. And while you’re at it, think about this: leadership creates accountability and responsibility. Live up to the expectations. ?
To be a leader does not require official authority. In fact, most people are handed these roles only after showing signs of outstanding leadership. Taking opportunities to step outside your part and prove you’re capable of much more is what we’re talking about. And it won’t just help you, but everyone around you too. ?
How to lead when you aren’t the leader:?
So, if you have high aspirations for your career, consider the impact of good leadership roles. And there are many: Enhanced workplace dynamics; increased efficiency; improved quality of work, to name but a few. ?
Our CEO Satya Nadella likes to share these 3 leadership principles that can pack a meaningful punch. And with good reason.?
1. Generate energy – Develop optimism, creativity, and growth-thinking around what inspires you and how to tap into what motivates others. Making sure our actions align with the broader organizational goals will build stronger organizations tomorrow than today.?
2. Create clarity – considering how to provide a sense of direction while aligning with others.?
3. Deliver success – in essence, packing a punch by driving innovation that people love; coming up with new and big ideas; breaking boundaries in finding solutions. ?
Large organizations can lead by example too, and we can certainly apply these very principles to those of individual leadership. To gain perspective, let us consider some of Microsoft’s principles:?
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To be inclusive: Expecting everyone- no matter the level, role, or function- to play an active role in creating meaningful working environments.?
To have a growth mindset: creating a culture of not being afraid to try unique things, working together as one, and making a difference in the world.?
To build on the success of others: being a family of individuals united by a single, shared mission. Building on the ideas of others and collaborating across boundaries to bring the best to customers.?
To leverage achievements and success: creating a culture that finds ways to help people do ordinary and sometimes extraordinary things.?
To focus on well-being: creating a safe space to continue to explore and grow.?
To encourage mentorship: the art of building a unique, essential relationship grounded in trust and respect between both parties.?
But wait, there’s more. If you’re aiming at becoming a respected contributor to your team, know and understand the different forms of leadership:?
Lead by Example: If you want to learn to lead, find the best leaders around you. Putting in the effort to develop that commitment and perspective will have your peers naturally look to you for guidance. ?
Lead by Empowerment: Get power by giving power. In effect, you’ll inspire people to improve their job performance and ultimately contribute to a culture of trust and appreciation.?
Lead by Design: this means not being capped by your own ability. By putting the right systems in place, you can get the whole team to meet their potential. This is both the most effective and the most accessible form of leadership. ?
In conclusion, the words of Eleanor Roosevelt:?
“A good leader inspires people to have confidence in the leader; a great leader inspires people to have confidence in themselves.”?
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2 年A great piece Turki Badhris really insightful