Distinctions of Leaders
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Leadership is a vast and intricate field of study with multiple facets. It’s about being a trailblazer, paving the way for others to follow. But not all leaders are made equal. For the purpose of this article, I will classify leaders into two distinct grades: grade A and grade B. This is not about a hierarchy in terms of quality or capability, but rather about the different ways these two types of leaders operate and influence their followers.
Grade B leaders, as I’ve specified, equate leadership with a title or a position of influence. They require a role of power to orchestrate their people and showcase their prowess. They take on notable responsibilities from a high pedestal, exhibiting their authority and making major decisions for the team or organization. The power and the office are their tools of influence.
On the contrary, Grade A leaders do not necessarily need a title or an official caption to galvanize people around them. They use empathy, inspiration, and example as their motivating forces instead of relying on a position of authority. These leaders emanate leadership through their personality, values, and actions, stirring people to strive towards a common objective.
Let’s dive deeper to better comprehend these two types of leadership:
What Grade B Leaders are good at
Grade B leaders are often visible at the peak of the hierarchy in any organization or delegation. They hold essential positions, make significant decisions, and frequently have a direct impact on the direction and strategy of the team or organization. They often dominate the spotlight, their actions and decisions under constant scrutiny.
The primary characteristic of the Grade B leader is their external locus of influence. They have a tangible feel of authority, given by their title or office, that lends them credibility and asserts their power. This type of leader is defined by the boundaries of their authority, which are often limited to their area of responsibility. They thrive and function best under situations where structures, protocols, and hierarchies are in place.
They are pressure-absorbing leaders. They are accountable for the performance of the group because they are at the helm. They define objectives, assign tasks, and ensure that every team member achieves their duties within a stipulated timeline.
However, their efficiency and competency often hinge on their title. They usually establish their leadership principles within their circle of influence and make decisions concerning people in that circle. The respect they get is often tied to their position.
The Influence of Grade A Leaders
Unlike Grade B leaders, Grade A leaders do not rely on ranks or positions to exercise their leadership. They inspire, motivate, and influence others through their interpersonal relations, personal integrity, and decisive actions. These individuals can be found at any level within an organization and may not necessarily hold a formal position of leadership or an office.
Grade A leaders have an internal sphere of influence. They lead by example, exhibiting the traits and values they want to cultivate in their team. They motivate their people through inspiration rather than direction, fostering a sense of unity, shared goals, and mutual respect. These leaders go beyond their designated roles and often influence aspects of the organization outside their formal jurisdiction.
They are often seen as mentors and role models. They draw respect from their abilities, knowledge, and character rather than from their titles. These leaders guide their teams with humility, empathy, honesty, and transparency, laying the foundation for trust, which is the bedrock of loyalty and long-term commitment.
To sum it up, it is the Grade B leaders who provide the structure and the authority for an organization to function. In contrast, it is the Grade A leaders who provide the heart and soul of a group, inspiring team members to give their best and fostering a culture of collaboration and shared success.
Both types of leaders are critical in any organization or gathering, as each provides a unique function and creates a balance that enables the collective unit to thrive. In an ideal world, every leader would embody elements of both Grade A and Grade B leadership since each has its advantages.
In the end, the most effective leadership style depends on the situation, the group members, and the task at hand. Consequently, good leaders are those who can adapt and alternate between the two grades, recognizing when to exert authority and when to lead by example. That’s the real distinction of a great leader.
