An Overview of the Five Levels of Leadership

Nowadays the word ¨leadership¨ is used in all spheres of society, from the political field to the business and religious fields. One of the modern precursors of the study of leadership is John C. Maxwell, who for years has used and taught an instrument of leadership that puts into perspective the kind of respect that the leader projects in his functions. He is the composer of ¨The 5 Levels Of Leadership¨, which describes the most important conceptual components of each level.

Level 1: Rights. You get the position and the title. This is the basic level to enter into the leadership. The only influence is the title and security of that title, not talent. This type of leadership is featured by traditional jobs. This level is obtained frequently. In order to pass to the second level, it is important to recognize your position, your roles and what to do to develop the necessary skills. Another factor that have influence is get to know the company which you belong to and offer creative ideas of change and improvement.

Level 2: Relationships. A leader at this level is effective because they build relationships with people in their team and they are likable. When you get people to work for you when they are not obliged to do it. At this level, you direct by interrelations, you are capable to build solid and lasting relationships with people and your team,and all business is maintained because of those long-lasting relationships. Certain points that are important to take into consideration in order to move to the next level are: have the desire for others in your group to succeed,help others in their careers, treat people with wisdom and to help others achieve success. Because if others succeed, the leader will also succeed.

Level 3: Results. At this level is where your work and the work of your team speak for you. The effort became into results, the numbers are positive, the profits increase, the productivity is at maximum and the spirit of your people gives it away. It is the moment where the goals are reached and where more ambitious and difficult ones are proposed, but with the certainty that you will manage them with the help of your team.

Level 4: Developing People. At this level, as a leader, you have managed to train and create new leaders. All good work gives good results. Stronger bonds are created, as such as loyalty.

Level 5: Respect. This is the level any leader wish to reach. The merits have exceeded expectations and conditions. Reputation speaks more than your job and your people respect you for every achievement accomplished. You have become more than a leader, a mentor. My Own Point of ViewI think, my supervisor could fit in the level 5. She is the director of ESL Department and Center for International Studies, both located at Kean University. She meets more than all expectations required in the laboral ambit. Her dedication has brought her connections around the world, specially in China where is located Wenzhou-Kean University, earning the love and respect of those who have the honor to know her. To me, she is my mentor and I am certain sure that she is for others students. Even since I need any advice, I come to her and her words has helped me alot, and it is for that reason I am thankful to her, because she always look up the best for me. And that is what mentors do, help others to find themselves.