Titles = Leadership

In so many instances, people with leadership “titles” make the mistake of thinking that they are automatically a leader. This is as far from the truth as beachfront property in Nevada. The truth is that leadership doesn’t just exist vertically - it also exists on a horizontal plane as well. And since true leadership exists horizontally and vertically, titles do not matter. To be labeled as a leader is a major achievement and honor. It means that you are not selfish and genuinely care about people. It means that you take care of the people that take care of the work. It means that you have actual relationships with your followers. Leadership is not about you as an individual - it is about the whole.

True leadership surfaces from those that are always willing to learn. From those that are always investing in themselves to learn how to be more effective as a leader. From those that are good listeners. And from those that understands the value of building strong teams. True leadership doesn’t mean that you have all of the answers. Nor does it require for you to have all of the answers. Leaders get to know their team members intimately, meaning they know their strengths and weaknesses. They know who to go for certain tasks and to get certain results. Then they trust them to carry it out.

While there are many traits and styles of leaders, there are truly common fundamental principles that will always apply. The key mindset of ALL leaders: take care of your people. Whether you are already a leader, or a leader in development, people should be your core concern. When people know that you care genuinely, that’s when you begin to have INFLUENCE. Therefore, if your desire is to be an effective leader, invest in yourself, take care of your people, Lather, Rinse, Repeat.

Remember: your title does not make you a leader.