[Elisha] also took up the mantle of Elijah that fell from him and returned and stood by the banks of the Jordan. He took the mantle of Elijah that fell from him and struck the waters and said, “Where is the LORD, the God of Elijah?” And when he also had struck the waters, they were divided here and there, and Elisha crossed over.
2 Kings 2:13-14
Everybody follows someone. Modeling is how we learn as infants, kids, teenagers, and adults. Once we see it, we can do it. It’s no different for leaders. Whether you have just taken on the mantle of a new position or are a seasoned leader, you are following in the footsteps of another to discover what works and what doesn’t work until you find your own leadership style. Once the mantle passed from Elijah to Elisha, the first thing he did was TEST the power that came with the office of head prophet of Israel. As you take on new positions in your career, new people, or increased influence within an organization, consider what will create or cost you equity in your leadership (influence) bank account.
Builds Leadership Equity
- Willing to hear people out.
- Building relationships to get things done.
- Developing collaboration.
- Taking time to understand.
- Putting the team above your rights.
- Adapting to the team and environment.
Reduces Leadership Equity
- Jumping to conclusions without gathering facts.
- Overusing authority early in your role.
- Making unilateral decisions.
- Assuming you understand.
- Using the team to serve your position.
- Exerting what you know over the team and environment.
Good people skills are your best leadership skills. Loren Cunningham, founder of Youth with a Mission, said, “When you use influence to get things done, you gain authority. When you use authority, it costs you influence.” When new to a position, proving yourself with the people must precede proving yourself in the organization. If you don’t win with your people, you won’t win in your new role. The way to guarantee your success is through servant leadership. It’s paradoxical, but servant leaders focus on serving those who follow them.
REFLECT TO CONNECT
- Whom do you know that has had to prove themselves in a new role? What was their experience?
- Have you ever had to prove yourself in a new role? What was your experience?
- What advice would you give to someone growing in their career?
Leaders win with the people before they can win in the organization.
