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“He’s not even a full screw yet, but I’d follow him anywhere.”
I overheard that once, years ago. The context? A young soldier, no rank, no formal authority, but the kind of person who made people feel safe, seen, and supported.
That’s when it clicks: leadership doesn’t start with a rank slide, it starts with how you show up.
From Wearing the Rank to Earning the Respect
In the Army, rank is clear. You know who’s in charge. But respect? Trust? Influence? Those aren’t sewn on. They’re earned every day, through your actions, not your appointments.
It’s no different in civilian life.
Yet I see so many new managers (especially first-time ones) grapple with this:
“Why aren’t they listening to me?”
“Do I need to be more assertive?”
“I’m their peer-turned-manager, so how do I lead them now?”
And the biggest one:
“Am I even doing this right?”
The truth is, you don’t need permission to lead well.
You need clarity, consistency, and the courage to care.
Leadership Without the Slide Looks Like:
Taking initiative when things get hard, even when it’s not your “job.”
Backing your team in the tough conversations.
Admitting what you don’t know, and asking better questions instead.
Listening first, and not just to respond.
If you’ve ever followed someone who wasn’t the most senior person in the room, but somehow had the most impact, you know exactly what I mean.
Your Rank Slide Might Say "Manager", But Are You Leading?
Whether you're new to management or finding your leadership voice without the official title, remember: your influence doesn’t come from what’s on your email signature—it comes from what people experience when they work with you.
And that’s something you can build. Every day.
☕️ Brew-Time Reflection:
Who do you lead (even informally) right now?
What’s one way you can show leadership today, without waiting for permission?
Want More Leadership Without the Rank Slide?
Each post from Leading Without the Rank Slide brings you lessons from the field, practical tools, and personal stories to help you grow as a leader, without needing a title to get started.
Want to Talk Leadership in your Organisation? Book a 15-min brew call with me here → Contact Us | Blue Plume Academy
