Being In Charge Doesn’t Make You A Leader
A few years ago, I consulted with a particular major national organization, and the woman in charge of the media department went to great lengths to let everyone know that she was just that – in charge. She was demanding, highly opinionated, and never missed an opportunity to remind her team of her title and position.
The problem was that she wanted to be in charge but not take any responsibility.
When her decisions were wrong (which they frequently were), she would blame anyone but herself. When a problem happened with something our team was doing, she immediately went to “Defcon 1” – sending out a highly critical email that she cc’d to everyone upstream in the executive suite. In most cases, the “problem” turned out to be a mistake on her part, but by then, the damage was done.
She was feared by many department members but never respected by anyone.
Never mistake “being in charge” for real leadership. Great leaders are humble, know how to inspire and lead their team, and are prepared to take responsibility – whether it’s their fault or not.
Make sure your goal is to be a leader – not just be in charge.
Real leaders create change. People “in charge” undermine it.
Phil Cooke, PhD. has been called “one of the most innovative communicators of our generation.” As a media producer, writer, speaker, and consultant, his client list includes major film studios and TV networks as well as major Christian organizations like Voice of the Martyrs, The Museum of the Bible, The Salvation Army, and others. He’s also coached and consulted with many of the most influential churches and nonprofit organizations in the world, helping them use media to tell their story. You can hear his podcast here.
