Instead of proper planning we allow things to become urgent. Instead of realistic targets we push people to achieve "stretch goals". Instead of healthy, two-way communication, we lean on the cascade of information that comes with hierarchy. Instead of building a compelling case for change, we rely on our title to push our agenda.

The problem is that positional power still works.

People don't question it, nor do they challenge it. If it's overused you'll find your people will stop offering alternative perspectives too. In the short term, it feels more efficient but in the long term, it's incredibly expensive.

Every time you use positional power, you teach people something about the environment they're operating in. You teach them that curiosity is conditional and that challenging the status quo won't always be welcomed. You encourage them to have independent thinking...right up until the point that it becomes inconvenient.

If you're wondering why your team aren't taking ownership, or relying on you to make all the decisions, and take all the responsibility, then positional power might be the reason.

The leaders creating sustainable performance today aren't relying on their position to get results. They're building trust and influencing rather than directing. They're creating environments where people contribute because they want to, not because they have to.

If you want people to think critically, take ownership and bring their best thinking to work, the first question isn't whether they're capable of doing it. The question is  whether you've created the conditions that allow them to.

If you'd like support building influence-based leadership capability across your organisation, let's have a conversation.

Through executive coaching and leadership development programs, I help leaders create cultures built on trust, ownership and sustainable performance rather than hierarchy and compliance.

Shelley 😁

Shelley Flett.

Leadership Trainer, Facilitator & Coach | Shelley Flett Pty Ltd 

M: 0407 522 888 | E: shelley@shelleyflett.com | W: shelleyflett.com