John C. Maxwell says, “The true measure of leadership is influence - nothing more, nothing less.” Many times when we think of leaders, we think of the high-profile executive with the office suite, cherry desk, and leather furniture. But in all reality, just because someone holds a high-level position in an organization does not necessarily make him or her a great leader.
Great leaders have influence. And great influencers have followers. I think it’s time to put the idea out of our minds that leaders only exist in high-level positions. In this tough, dynamic business environment in which we live today, it’s necessary that great leaders exist in all levels of the organization, not just at the top.
Leadership is not attained through a particular position or a particular pay grade. Leadership is influence, and leadership is earned. It’s simply impossible to be a leader of any kind unless people are willing to step to the side and let you lead them because they believe in who you are, what you do, and what you seek to accomplish through them.
How can you influence someone in your organization today?
Nathan R Mitchell is the founder of the business coaching company, Clutch Consulting, and is the Dean of Academic Affairs at Brown Mackie College of Tulsa. He is an experienced business coach, leadership trainer, corporate speaker, and published author. Nathan is the author of five books on business management, entrepreneurship and leadership, including the top-selling books Growing Businesses & Empowering People, Leading with Purpose: 30 Empowering Tips to Transform Your Organization, and Give Me the Ball! Winning the Game of Entrepreneurship. Nathan has received praise from many of today’s top business experts, including Brian Tracy, James Malinchak, and Jim Whitt. He is currently working on his Doctorate of Organizational Leadership with Argosy University.