Monday, July 27, 2009

3 Tips for Leading Without Authority

In today's flat organizations, leaders need to influence and persuade not only their direct reports, but a cast of peers, contractors, and managers. Here are three tips to assume authority in any situation, whether or not you're the official leader:
Remember enthusiasm is contagious. Your genuine excitement about a project will motivate others to become engaged and care about it.
Take care of your own ego. No one wants to be responsible for making you feel important. Assume authority by demonstrating excellence in your field, not soliciting others' approval.
Lead quietly. When you don't have formal authority propping you up, others will be suspicious if you grab the reins too forcefully. Don't be overinvested in the outcome; lead quietly, get everyone involved, and ask questions along the way.

Today's Management Tip was adapted from "Leading When You Don't Have Formal Authority" by Steven DeMaio.

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