The art of using influence makes good leaders better. Most leaders don’t understand that leadership is a responsibility, not a privilege. Some people let authority go to their heads and they become conceited and arrogant.  In the following article, John Maxwell explains to get influence instead of borrowing it from the position.

The Key to Gaining Influence is Earning It, Not Borrowing It

Leadership is influence — nothing more, nothing less. The more I speak to leaders of all stripes, the more I’m reminded of the truth of this statement. No matter who you are, no matter where you serve, if you have influence with people, you can lead them. Read the rest of the post…

Remember that showing consistent and predictable behavior produces trust. Individuals will follow a leader who is credible and predictable. Oh yes, it’s not always the top person on the organizational chart that yields the most influence.