Too many people that aspire to leadership roles mistakenly assume the time to develop the necessary skills is when they get a title or their employer or some group bestows on them a position of authority. The problem with this thinking is that “leadership is a decision, not a position” as Stephen Covey so rightly said. Therefore; if you’re waiting to hone your leadership skills until you get the job title you are a lot less likely to ever advance. In short, opportunity finds those who can already lead (i.e. influence) others.

Needless to say the topic of leadership and influence is near and dear to me. I’ve given it a lot of thought over the years. I hope you enjoy this collection of leadership focused thoughts and ideas.

Quotes About Leadership

“Great leadership is about influencing people in a positive way. The operative word is positive. Sadly, history is full of those who have influenced the masses where the outcome was anything but positive. Be intentional and you’re sure to leave a legacy of positive leadership.” — Josh Hinds

“The best way to break down silos in an organization is to simply walk from department to department saying “hi” and letting people see you being available. Be bold and you’ll find that people will follow your lead.” — Josh Hinds

“If you wish to be more influential, spend more time being interested than you do trying to be interesting.” — Josh Hinds

“Don’t be stingy with your encouragement. Your words can be a catalyst for untold change in the lives of others.” — Josh Hinds

“Whether or not we realize it, each of us has within us the ability to set some kind of example for people. Knowing this would you rather be the one known for being the one who encouraged others, or the one who inadvertently discouraged those around you?” — Josh Hinds

“If you want to grow in influence, an often overlooked approach is to simply develop the habit of calling out the good things others are doing right. It’s not rocket science, but it does require consistency of action.” — Josh Hinds

“The key for all leaders is to use their influence for truly positive results by applying the filter of lasting legacy. If you use that filter you’ll avoid many of the mistakes less effective leaders make.” — Josh Hinds

“There are always things that can be done to make things better. The question is, what can YOU do to make a difference? Equally as important — what are you waiting for?” — Josh Hinds

“Changing the world is a tall order, but make no mistake you can change your immediate world. The good news is that by embracing that mindset and acting accordingly you end up bringing greater change. Don’t absolve yourself of the responsibility to act where it’s needed.” — Josh Hinds

“Solid business advice I got early on: Don’t bad mouth your competition. Don’t give undeserving referrals either, but don’t talk badly of competitors. You never know who knows who, nor who you may need as an ally down the road.” — Josh Hinds

“If you wish to be more influential, spend more time being interested than you do trying to be interesting.” — Josh Hinds

“As Stephen Covey said, ‘Leadership isn’t a position, it’s a decision.’ You can choose to lead in numerous ways everyday.” — Josh Hinds

“The most effective leaders develop others who go on to achieve great things in their own right. Take inventory of those who have grown under your leadership. If your list is lacking you’ve got to step up your leadership development game. Being a great leader is about developing others as much as it is your individual results. If you don’t develop others on your team, eventually your results will stagnate because no matter how individually productive you may be you’ll find yourself at the place where you can longer scale to meet what’s being asked of you.” — Josh Hinds