We begin our journey in leadership with a fundamental truth:
Having a position means you have a seat at the table — a chance to lead — but it does not guarantee that people will follow you. The authority that comes with a title is limited if not backed by influence. Leaders who rely solely on their position often find themselves isolated, commanding compliance but not commitment. This kind of leadership breeds an environment where people do the bare minimum, clock-watchers who count down the minutes until they can leave. It’s a place where morale is low, creativity is stifled, and turnover is high.
Consider the analogy of a clock-watching employee who eagerly awaits quitting time. In workplaces where leadership is positional, this attitude becomes contagious. Employees do just enough to keep their jobs, showing up physically but often mentally disengaged, costing organizations billions in lost productivity. The leader who commands by position alone might hold the reins, but the team’s hearts and minds remain elsewhere.
Leaders who depend only on their title often become trapped in politics and turf wars, guarding their position instead of empowering their people. They may enjoy the trappings of authority but fail to build the trust and respect that true leadership demands. This results in high turnover, especially among the most talented, who seek environments where their contributions are valued and their growth supported.
But there is hope. Position is merely the foundation — a starting point. From this base, leaders can choose to grow, to develop influence through relationships and results. The journey from positional leadership to true influence is not automatic; it requires intentional effort and a shift in mindset. Leaders must recognize that their role is not to boss people around but to serve and empower them.
As you reflect on this, remember that leadership is not a destination marked by a title; it is a dynamic process of influence and growth. The leader who understands this begins to move beyond position, building the trust and relationships that open the door to deeper influence.
Our next chapter will explore how leaders earn permission to lead by building authentic relationships, transforming followers from reluctant subordinates into willing partners on a shared journey.
