How to Lead When You're Not in Charge: Leveraging Influence When You Lack Authority

by Clay Scroggins

When you find people who can get things done in an organization conspiring against them, you’ve found leaders.

When you find people who can get things done in an organization conspiring against them, you’ve found leaders.

When I had authority, I could lead. If I had no authority, I was just waiting my turn.

I regret feeling like a victim to the structure or hierarchy of the organization.

Leaders lead with the authority of leadership . . . or without it. The authority is largely irrelevant—if you are a leader, you will lead when you are needed.

we don’t need authority to have influence.

Influence has always been, and will always be, the currency of leadership.

no one can lead you any further than you’re leading yourself.

Remember, leadership is the ability to motivate people to work harder, longer, and smarter, because the vision of the end goal has been painted so clearly.

Shift #1: Stop thinking as an employee. Start thinking as an owner.