The Law Of Empowerment

Everyone knows people who use their power and position to put others in their place. In the animal world, this ranking behavior is present in almost every species. In order for a community to function well, there needs to be a hierarchy.

It becomes problematic when it is used to defend one's own position. This behavior is widespread in the business world. Finally, after several years of effort, you reach a leadership position. The name alone exudes prestige and recognition, supposedly.  We also know poor characters who are no good as leaders and who cause great damage.

Such damage first manifests itself in the fact that the manager's employees become more dissatisfied. This has a negative impact on performance and team structure. Employees are increasingly calling in sick.

A manager like this doesn't recognize what's going on in each individual employee because they hardly talk to the employees. The mindset of such leaders can be described with the following sentence: “They get money for what they do, so they should perform.”

But employees have power. It is human nature to run away from unpleasant situations. The well-paid job is only a short-term reward for the pain you have to endure. At some point the pain is so great that the employee looks for alternatives. At some point the new job offer will be on the table.

How can you as a manager avoid such situations?

Take care of your employees and recognize the people behind the work and position. People are not machines, not even you! You must recognize and promote this. People want to be seen. They want to receive recognition and trust. You too, don't you?

Effective leadership attracts and brokers the talent of others. Authentic leaders turn people into leaders and give them positions that are even higher than their own.

Leaders who act like this multiply their influence!

No, that is not possible at all! It's my turn first, after all, I've been with the company for a long time.

If these are your thoughts, you must work hard on your poor mindset!

Let me tell you: people are not paid for the time they serve, but for their worth!

As a leader, you develop people. You teach them what you have learned and equip them and send them out.

This principle is also already described in Matthew 10:1-15. Jesus trained, empowered, and sent his disciples even though their training was not yet complete.

He proceeded as follows:

1. A personal call
He called each one by name.

2. A central objective
He clearly told them where to go and what places to avoid.

3. A clear message
He gave them the specific message.

4. Practical credentials
He equipped them to gain credibility by giving them tools to confirm their message.

5. Confidence for provision
He boosted their confidence and gave them a plan to acquire additional resources.

6. Solid convictions
He furnished convictions on how they were to act with both friends and critics.