There's a difference between the student leader who simply relies on their position and one who seeks to increase their influence (powerful) as a leader:
- Position-minded leaders focus on titles. Influence-minded leaders focus on relationships.
- Position-minded leaders focus are job description oriented. Influence-minded leaders are people oriented.
- Position-minded leaders place the emphasis on seniority and chain of command. Influence-minded leaders place the emphasis on people's strengths and abilities.
- Position-minded leaders get things done by themselves. Influence-minded leaders get things done through others.
- Position-minded leader's goal is to get a better title. Influence-minded leader's goal is to develop better people.
Ultimately, the person who relies simply on positional influence will never be able to grow beyond the boundaries of their position, and thus, not grow as a leader. The great thing about influence is that you don’t have to be in a position of leadership to exert it. Sometimes, the most influential people on your campus or organization will never hold a leadership position.
One last thought on influence. Those who exert influence over others, whether it be positional or powerful, can do so for good or for harm. Influence is a sacred trust. If you choose to wield your influence for your own personal gain, you will do a great disservice to those who have selected you for this position. If, on the other hand, you choose to invest your influence into helping those you work with to succeed, then you can make an impact that will last beyond your leadership term.
Business philosopher, Jim Rohn, says it this way,
“Get around people who have something of value to share with you. Their impact will continue to have a significant effect on your life long after they have departed.”
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