Developing the leader in you

Leadership is about creating positive influence. Everyone has the potential to exert influence in any situation or with any group. Based on my experience, there are five stages of influence that we can move through alongside five levels of leadership. To move into a leadership role is to understand one’s source of influence and level of leadership. Advancement to the next level can only happen once an individual has excelled in the present level.

The Five Levels of Leadership

Level One … Position At level one an authority figure exerts control largely because of position. Many times, a leader at this level rules by intimidation. People will follow because they have to, and they will not spend an effort beyond their job description or what is required. There is high turnover and low morale in the organization. Indicators of excellence at this level is: You are highly skilled Knows the job inside and out Has strong initiative Is proactive Is highly responsible

Level Two … Permission/relationship At this position, a permission leader relies on people interrelationships with strong emphasis on bringing people together. Employees begin to follow beyond the leader’s stated authority. Indicators of excellence at this level is: They genuine care for people Have a strong people relationship Believes in win-win results Knows how to deal with difficult people

Level Three … Production/Results At level three, the leader brings the people together on a journey to accomplish a purpose allowing them to share in the glory of results. People follow to accomplish a shared objective. Indicators of excellence at this level is: Driven by a statement of purpose They are accountable for results Knows and does things that give a high return They accept responsibility

Level Four … People development/Reproduction A leader at level four empowers followers and helps them grow personally. People follow because of loyalty brought about by how the leader has helped them grow. Indicators of excellence at this level is: Recognizes people are valuable assets They are role models for others to follow Develops people Shares goals They surround oneself with a core team that complements leadership philosophy

Level five … Personhood At level five the leader has spent years growing people and organizations. People follow because of who and what the leader represents. Indicators of excellence at this level are: Followers are loyal and sacrificial The leaders are mentors and they mold leaders They transcends the organization Leader’s ultimate joy is to watch others grow and develop

Post in the comments the positive influences you are applying to step into your leadership role.