A Leader In Disguise

In Transformers, the Autobots and Decepticons were robots. They were also in disguise.

Depending on the series, the Transformers would take on different forms. During Beast Wars, the Transformers took the shape of animals. In the movies and most of the other Transformers series, they took the form of vehicles or household items.

The cartoon was entertaining as most of the cast didn’t know there were robots in disguise going about their business right in front of them. This got me thinking. Are you a leader in disguise?

Image by e.r.w.i.n.

You may think you’re not in a position of leadership. You’re just an employee doing your job. You have no title or position of authority.

Thoughts of hopelessness and frustration may overwhelm you as you think you have no power to change the organization. You’d be wrong though. You have power. You have authority.

In fact, you’re a leader in disguise.

At this point, you might be a bit confused. How am I a leader? I don’t have the power to change the current business environment.

Leadership goes beyond a title and official recognition. Leadership goes to the heart.

Leadership is about the influence you have over others. And I’m sure you have influence over those you work with.

Image by Brian Summers

Hopefully you’re not the office gossip. And yet they hold an unofficial leadership position.

Think about the influence this person holds.

Rumors spread quickly once they spill forth from their mouth

Employees are turned against each other by what they say

Emotions are changed when this person enters the room

Much like the evil Decepticons, the gossip is in disguise. He holds influence. It’s negative influence but it’s influence none-the-less.

The office gossip plays the role of a leader in disguise.

Yet this isn’t the type of leader in disguise I want you to be. And I hope it’s not the kind of leader in disguise you want to be either.

I want you to be a positive force in your organization. One that has the ability to move through the ranks of leadership and become known as a great leader.

This requires a different tact than the office gossip.

Image by Brian Summers

Instead, be like the Autobots. Be a positive leader in disguise.

Offer to help on projects that you have skills for

Put in your best efforts

Speak up when injustice happens

Follow through on your commitments

Take initiative

Be honest

Find a way to be influential within your organization without being negative. Be willing to offer a helping hand. Find ways to improve the organization. Be a shining example to those you work with.

When you begin implementing these actions, you’ll become a leader whether or not you’re recognized with an official title. If the title never comes, be satisfied with being a leader in disguise.

Question: Have you seen the influence of a leader in disguise? What made him or her stand out? Please share your story in the comment section below.