Sometimes You Have to Lead From the Middle


Leadership theory is full of “push” and “pull” methods for getting your team to move.  But often momentum can be gained from creating impetus internally in the team and letting it take its natural course, hopefully in the direction that you had in mind.  If the team feels as if they have made the decision on how and where to move, you are a success as the leader. Leading from the middle can also have the benefit of allowing you to take the temperature of your organization.  Calling your team into a room to work through an issue can be cathartic for everyone, including you.  It is an opportunity to touch base with your mission, and to revisit the fit of form to function.  It is also an opportunity for the team to refocus and bond in a common cause.  Finally, as a leader, it is an opportunity for hands-on interaction with your team.  You may find that all of you together are smarter than any one of you.

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