A Non-Profit Resignation
Many years ago, I was involved with a non-profit organization when its CEO resigned. While in the room, people immediately turned their heads to the person with the second-most influence in the room and began asking him for direction. They began lining up lunches, breakfasts, and meetings with that individual. People respected the CEO and appreciated the contribution he had made. But in one announcement, all his influence was transferred to the number two individual in the organization.
A Company Sale
I was also involved in a meeting when the owner and president of the company I was employed called everyone together for an announcement. Surprisingly, the owner announced he had sold the company and the new owner and president walked into the room. The previous owner left after the announcement but the president remained in the office to clear out his things. That afternoon, no one spoke with him other than cordial “Thank you’s.” All conversations and questions were with the new owner and president.
A Presidential Exit
I thought about those two meetings today as I watched the news coverage of President Joe Biden’s exit from the presidential race. The pundits are far more equipped than I am to discuss the political impact of his announcement, but I want to speak into an important leadership lesson from it.
As I watched two hours of coverage, which included both CNN and Fox News, I did not see one person thank President Biden for his 52 years of work in Washington D.C. or any of his accomplishments as president. All their talk centered on Vice President Kamala Harris.
Similar to the profit and non-profit stories mentioned above, when President Biden removed himself for the race, everyone’s attention immediately moved to Vice President Harris.
The Number One Way Leaders Lose Their Influence
It is difficult but if you lose the trust of those you lead, you can regain it over time. If you make a mistake, you can apologize and correct it. If you have a behavioral issue, you can make amends and correct your behavior.
But if you resign your leadership position, if you quit, people will immediately find a new leader to follow. And it will be swift.
So leaders, you need to have a healthy self-image if you are going to resign. When you leave your position, if you are lucky, you might get a gold watch, going-away party, and maybe an award named after you. But do not be confused – Your calendar may suddenly open up. Your opinion may not be sought after as much. And your team will have immediately moved on and will be following someone else’s leadership.
____________________________________________________________________________
I have recently developed a strategic partnership with an organization called Netline. They are an organization which gets content into as many hands as possible. Together, we created a FREE resource entitled “The Top 90 Leadership Quotes of 2024 – Part 1.“ You can click HERE or on the image provided to receive this complimentary resource.
Now a special request. This is a complimentary resource. Therefore, if you will make special note of the ads on the pages you will see. If any interest you, please click the images and learn more about their products.
Once again, you can get your FREE resource by clicking DOWNLOAD NOW.
These quotes will take 15 minutes to read and a lifetime to apply. Let’s get started. You’re about to get smarter and better as a leader! #CommissionsEarned