Las 21 leyes irrefutables del liderazgo

02The True Measure of Leadership: Influence

Let's debunk a common myth: leadership is not about the title you hold or the power you wield. It's about influence. You might be thinking, "Wait, isn't leadership about being the boss, calling the shots, and having people do what you say?" Well, not exactly. According to John C. Maxwell in his book "Las 21 leyes irrefutables del liderazgo," the true gauge of leadership is influence, not position or power. Influence, in the context of leadership, is the ability to shape people's thoughts, behaviors, and actions. It's about inspiring others to follow your lead, not because they have to, but because they want to. It's about earning respect and trust, not demanding it. And why is influence more important than position or power? Because a leader without influence is merely a figurehead. They might have the title and the power, but if they can't inspire or motivate their team, their leadership is ineffective. Take, for example, a manager who has been promoted because of their technical skills, not their leadership skills. They might have the title and the power, but if they can't influence their team, they won't be able to lead effectively. On the other hand, a team member without a formal leadership title but who can inspire and motivate their peers is a true leader. So, how can you gain influence as a leader? One way is through competence. Competence is about being good at what you do. It's about having the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform your role effectively. When you demonstrate competence, you earn the respect and trust of your team, which increases your influence. For instance, a leader who consistently delivers results and solves problems effectively will have more influence than one who doesn't. Integrity is another way to enhance your influence. Integrity is about being honest, ethical, and reliable. It's about doing what's right, even when no one is watching. Leaders who show integrity earn the trust and respect of their team, which enhances their influence. For example, a leader who admits their mistakes and takes responsibility for their actions will have more influence than one who blames others and avoids accountability. Building relationships is also crucial for increasing your influence. Relationships are the foundation of leadership. They're about connecting with your team on a personal level, understanding their needs and concerns, and showing empathy and support. When you build strong relationships with your team, you increase your influence. For example, a leader who takes the time to listen to their team, values their input, and supports their growth will have more influence than one who doesn't. In conclusion, the true measure of leadership is influence, not position or power. As a leader, your goal should be to increase your influence, not your title or power. You can do this by demonstrating competence, showing integrity, and building relationships. So, instead of focusing on climbing the corporate ladder, focus on becoming a leader who can inspire and motivate others. That's the true mark of a great leader.

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