Do you want to be a leader that people report to or a leader that people don’t want to let down?

Most people have a position of authority, like being a boss, coach, or parent. But not everyone is a leader. The difference between having a position of power and being a leader is simple. People follow leaders; they comply with authority. Good leaders know that they can’t just give out orders. They learn to cultivate their emotional IQ, listening skills, and character to earn the right to speak into other people’s lives.

Think of someone you respect. Odds are they have many positive characteristics, including honesty, humility, and passion, to name a few. And you probably didn’t come to realize that about them overnight. It took time to learn who they are and see them prove that what you see is more than just what they do, but who they are.

True leadership authority is not earned the day you get a promotion. You earn your leadership authority by regularly investing in the people you lead and showing consistent character.

Characteristics of Leaders Who Earn Authority 

Leaders are Honest

Honesty goes beyond just telling the truth. You need to be a person who is true to your word and avoids talking about others behind their backs. The golden rule is especially important when leading others because it proves you care. When you prove you are honest, your team will trust that you have their best interest in mind.

Leaders are Competent

Excellence attracts attention. People will naturally want to be around you when you are great at your work. Think of Joseph in Genesis 39:1-4. He was a slave, but because he was so good at what he did, he quickly became one of the most influential people in his master’s house. Of course, no one is competent in every area. Part of being competent is knowing what you don’t know. Being humble and willing to ask for help with your weaknesses will go a long way to gaining trust with your team.

Leaders are Inspirational

Inspirational leaders find ways to enhance the potential inside of others. Their goal is to help others develop confidence. Focus on showing people their potential. Help them understand how their potential will support their goals. If you want to carry influence, ensure that the people around you feel purpose. When people know that they have a purpose, it changes everything.

Leaders are Caring

People appreciate it when others take the time to get to know them. By learning about what your people value, you can find unique ways to inspire them. When people feel understood, they are more open to guidance.

How To Earn Your Leadership Authority

1. Spend time with people

It’s hard to show people you care about them if you never talk to them. If you’re developing your leadership authority, this may look like having regularly scheduled meetings. I also encourage you to apply this practice to your home and friends. Have dinner together, go on a regular date night with your spouse, and schedule time to do something with your kids.

2. Practice Active Listening

Taking the role of listener, especially when you are an authority, will show that you care. Go deep into the things that both concern and excite others. By engaging with them on their playing field, you will begin building the kind of trust that will allow you to have the authority you need. When you are with people, ask questions. Don’t worry about how you will respond to their answer. Just listen to understand and see their perspective. Demonstrate your interest in what they are saying by making eye contact, nodding, and summarizing what they say to you.

3. Be Generous

Practice generosity by helping where you can and be humble enough to introduce them to people who know more than you.

It takes time to get good at leadership, but it is always worth it!