I believe that anyone can be a leader. By observing the dynamic of leaders and managers, one can see the differences between the two and how those differences make them more or less effective. A leader is a person who inspires others to act, whether they have managerial authority or simply influence. A manager is an employee who directs the actions of a group of other employees to ensure work tasks and other administrative requirements are completed. Some outstanding leaders are also managers, and unfortunately some managers are not great leaders.
When you open the possibilities of leadership up to everyone, you will see many rise to meet that opportunity. By identifying and investing in the development of leaders, you can build a strong bench of top talent ready to face challenges and inspire others though times of change or struggle.
It is also important to continuously empower those who work with or for you and help them feel there is no separation between the two of you. It’s important to be approachable to every individual you oversee. It is then that you can help each employee rise to meet their highest level of leadership. These new leaders will power your company well into the future and inspire the next generation of leaders below them.