How to lead others when you’re not in a position of authority

Leadership exists in several spectrums. As a leader, you might take the mantle naturally, easily commanding a room or a meeting. Or, you might prefer a more nuanced approach, quietly guiding and shaping from the back. The circumstances vary, dependant on subject matter, team size, professional or non-professional setting.

These differentiations may seem intuitive. Unfortunately, I learned these things the hard way. Coming into my first job, I believed that leadership was a switch to be turned on or off. I thought leaders were individuals in positions of leadership, that you needed to be a manager to lead.

Professional managers don’t have a monopoly on leadership, and the best leaders aren’t always the folks with “Assistant to the Regional Manager” in their LinkedIn profile or the folks with “C”s patched on their jerseys. The most impactful leaders are those that influence the people who don’t have to listen to them, who they don’t have authority over.

Too many managers mistake authority for leadership. Just because someone does what you ask them to doesn’t mean you’re leading. Leaders build up credibility and influence, earning followings from those that choose to be led. These folks can’t be fired, can’t be disciplined, and may walk away anytime they want. True leadership comes from others allowing you to lead them.

Want to use this knowledge to grow as a leader? Then build relationships with your employees to learn where you can help them. For me, starting fresh out of school in a management role, I spent my first few months just building relationships, convinced that I wouldn’t have any value to add. Eventually, I was known as “the spreadsheet guy” for my ability to put together pivot tables and charts quickly. By showing a willingness to help my colleagues with their data, I built stronger relationships and earned credibility and influence. I wasn’t going to command a room when discussing the company 3-year plan, but if there was a debate about pivot tables, people listened if I had something to say.

Grow your leadership talents with the people that don’t have to do what you say. Start with the skills and talents you have naturally. Use these assets to find out how you can relate to and help others. Find out if you’re the type of person people want to work with. Even if your leadership manifests itself in ways you didn’t expect, you can be a leader in your ability to teach or coach people. Your contributions will shine brighter when you identify the skills that you bring in these situations.

Not sure what skills you can naturally bring to the table? Message me on Twitter or email me. I’d love to help. Seeing results? Consider sharing this post with someone who could benefit. Good luck out there.

-Patrick

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