You don’t need a title to become a leader

The terms "leader" and "leadership" are often used interchangeably in the workplace, but there's an important distinction to be made between a designated leader and a true leader.

A designated leader is someone who holds a formal leadership position in an organization, They may have been chosen for this role based on their skills and experience, or they may have been promoted from within the organization.

A true leader, on the other hand, is someone who inspires and influences others to achieve a common goal, regardless of whether or not they hold a formal leadership position. True leaders can emerge from any level of an organization and are characterized by their ability to build relationships, communicate effectively, and inspire others to take action. One key difference between a designated leader and a true leader is the source of their authority.

Designated leaders derive their authority from their position in the organization, and are expected to direct and control the actions of others.

True leaders, on the other hand, derive their authority from the respect and trust they've earned from their peers and colleagues. They don't rely on their position to influence others but instead use their personal qualities and abilities to inspire and motivate their team.

Another key difference between a designated leader and a true leader is their focus.

Designated leaders are often focused on achieving specific outcomes or objectives, and may be more concerned with maintaining control and managing risk.

True leaders, on the other hand, are focused on creating a positive and supportive work environment, and on developing the skills and abilities of their team members. They prioritize building relationships and fostering collaboration, and are more concerned with the long-term success and well-being of the organization as a whole.

Ultimately, the difference between a designated leader and a true leader comes down to their approach to leadership. Designated leaders tend to be more focused on power and control, while true leaders are more focused on building relationships and empowering others.

While both types of leaders can be effective in their own way, true leaders are more likely to create a positive and productive work environment, and to inspire their team members to achieve their full potential.