The 360 Degree Leader

1. Leadership is influence, not position

"The true measure of leadership is influence—nothing more, nothing less."

Leadership transcends titles. True leadership is about the ability to influence others, regardless of one's formal position within an organization. This influence is earned through consistent actions, trustworthiness, and the ability to add value to others.

Develop influence at all levels. 360-Degree Leaders cultivate influence in three directions:

• Leading up (influencing those above you)
• Leading across (influencing your peers)
• Leading down (influencing those you lead)

By focusing on building influence rather than seeking a higher position, leaders can make a significant impact from wherever they are in the organization.

2. Overcome myths and challenges of leading from the middle

"Leadership is more disposition than position—influence others from wherever you are."

Dispel common misconceptions. Many people believe leadership myths that limit their potential:

• The Position Myth: "I can't lead if I'm not at the top."
• The Destination Myth: "When I get to the top, then I'll learn to lead."
• The Influence Myth: "If I were on top, then people would follow me."
• The Inexperience Myth: "When I get to the top, I'll be in control."
• The Freedom Myth: "When I get to the top, I'll no longer be limited."

Navigate leadership challenges. Leaders in the middle face unique obstacles:

• The Tension Challenge: Balancing the pressures from above and below
• The Frustration Challenge: Following an ineffective leader
• The Multi-Hat Challenge: Juggling multiple responsibilities
• The Ego Challenge: Staying humble while striving for growth
• The Fulfillment Challenge: Finding satisfaction in the middle

By recognizing and addressing these myths and challenges, leaders can overcome limitations and maximize their effectiveness from any position.

3. Lead up by adding value to your leaders

"If you want to get ahead, leading up is much better than kissing up."

Earn trust through performance. To lead up effectively, focus on:

• Lightening your leader's load
• Being willing to do what others won't
• Investing in relational chemistry
• Being prepared every time you take your leader's time

Develop strategic influence. Cultivate a reputation as a problem-solver and go-to person:

• Know when to push and when to back off
• Become a go-to player
• Continually improve your skills and knowledge

By consistently adding value and demonstrating reliability, you can earn the trust and respect of those above you, increasing your influence and opportunities for growth.

4. Lead across by building strong peer relationships

"People won't go along with you if they can't get along with you."

Foster collaboration, not competition. To lead effectively across an organization:

• Understand and practice the leadership loop: care, learn, appreciate, contribute, verbalize, lead, succeed
• Put completing fellow leaders ahead of competing with them
• Be a friend and avoid office politics
• Expand your circle of acquaintances
• Let the best idea win, regardless of its source

Build trust and credibility. Demonstrate authenticity and vulnerability:

• Don't pretend you're perfect
• Share credit and celebrate others' successes
• Offer help and support without expecting anything in return

By focusing on building strong relationships and adding value to your peers, you create a network of allies that enhances overall organizational effectiveness.

5. Lead down by developing and empowering your team

"Leaders who develop others, do more than make them better—they make themselves indispensable."

Invest in your people. Effective downward leadership involves:

• Walking slowly through the halls (being present and accessible)
• Seeing everyone as a "10" (believing in their potential)
• Developing each team member as a person
• Placing people in their strength zones
• Modeling the behavior you desire

Create a culture of growth. Foster an environment where people can thrive:

• Transfer the vision clearly and consistently
• Provide opportunities for leadership experience
• Reward initiative and results
• Encourage risk-taking and learning from failures

By focusing on developing and empowering your team, you multiply your impact and create a pipeline of future leaders for the organization.

6. Become a 360-Degree Leader to maximize your impact

"360-Degree Leaders possess qualities every organization needs."

Cultivate essential leadership qualities. Strive to develop:

• Adaptability: Quickly adjust to change
• Discernment: Understand the real issues
• Perspective: See beyond your own vantage point
• Communication: Link to all levels of the organization
• Security: Find identity in self, not position
• Servanthood: Do whatever it takes
• Resourcefulness: Find creative ways to make things happen
• Maturity: Put the team before self
• Endurance: Remain consistent in character and competence
• Countability: Be someone others can depend on

Create value at every level. 360-Degree Leaders:

• Make leadership teams more effective
• Provide leadership at every level of the organization
• Demonstrate readiness for higher leadership roles
• Improve the overall leadership capacity of the organization

By developing these qualities and practicing 360-Degree Leadership, you become an invaluable asset to your organization, capable of driving positive change from any position.

7. Create an environment that nurtures leadership at all levels

"If you create the right environment, people with leadership potential will rise to the top."

Foster a leadership culture. As a top leader, commit to:

• Placing a high value on people
• Committing resources to develop people
• Prioritizing leadership development
• Actively seeking potential leaders
• Providing leadership experiences and opportunities

Empower emerging leaders. Create an environment where leaders can thrive:

• Provide a safe space for questions, ideas, and risk-taking
• Grow alongside your people
• Draw high-potential individuals into your inner circle
• Develop leadership teams
• Unleash leaders to lead with appropriate authority and accountability

By intentionally creating an environment that nurtures leadership at all levels, organizations can build a sustainable pipeline of capable leaders, ensuring long-term success and adaptability in an ever-changing world.

Last updated: November 19, 2024