How to lead when you’re not in charge

In this article, Sats Solanki brings six practical ideas that will help you work out how to lead when you’re not ultimately in charge.

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By the simple matter of statistics, most of us spend most of our lives not occupying the space of the “point leader”. Which brings us to our question for today - how do we lead when we’re not the ones ultimately in charge? Is it possible to use our influence to change the culture and impact of an organisation without that final position of authority?

I believe it is. Here are some keys on how to lead when you’re not in charge.

1. Position is overrated

It’s true. Leadership doesn’t start with a position - it’s much more about the quality of who you are as a person. People may do what they’re told because they have to (or they’ll get fired) but they’re much more likely to respond to someone they trust and respect.

A position can be helpful but we can see from the political world that occupying the top spot does not guarantee the outcomes you want. To succeed we need people to be with us not just in formality but in practicality.

2. Leadership begins with you

The first person we lead is always ourselves. Before we’ll begin the opportunity to influence others, we must take command of our own responsibilities. There is no point trying to grow our responsibility (a more practical word for influence) if we’ve not yet mastered our own. Start by becoming the person you’re called to be.

3. Take some notes

What are the constant frustrations of yourself and others in the roles that you occupy? What stops you from doing the things you’re called to do? Become aware of the weak moving parts and consider what you can do to help. Spend some real time understanding and talking before you make any moves to implement or suggest changes.

4. Make a small change

It’s hard to be mad at someone taking responsibility. No one is going to be upset if you simply make an area better. But start small to test out the openness to change. You can always change it back. Bring doughnuts to work to boost morale. Or tidy a cupboard. It will always cost you something but it’s worth it.

5. Keep showing up and innovating

As you get into the habit of making things better, you’ll notice that people start to welcome your input. Your position may not have officially changed but others will respect you taking on responsibility and initiative. Just keep on serving and levelling up wherever you can.

6. Bring big ideas

Once you have built up some track record and reputation, you can then create an opportunity to pitch some change to the powers that be. People with positional power are always looking for people with genuine influence to help the mission move forward. When your heart is to serve, there really can be no downside. Make sure that your perspective is constructive and doesn’t come across as critical. It may also be worth creating space to ask your leaders what their current challenges or frustrations are to make sure any solutions you suggest are right on the money.