CHAPTER 1Micromessages: The DNA of Leadership

Don’t make the mistake of confusing authority with leadership. Being the boss doesn’t make you a leader. There is little correlation between the trappings of power and the ability to lead and inspire others.

You can have the impressive title, the cushy corner office, the power to direct others, even the perfect wardrobe, but those only dub you with authority. In reality, labels of authority have nothing to do with whether others consider you a leader or whether they’d be motivated to follow you. Unfortunately, people are often given the “power seat” to control the careers of others for reasons that have little to do with possessing the requisite skills. Top performers are typically rewarded with promotions ...

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