I walk into a meeting and my position comes with an expectation for me to lead. Sometimes I do.
Sometimes I don’t.
And that’s exactly how it should be. The title, Head of Engineering, gives me authority.
But it doesn’t mean leadership automatically happens the moment I open my mouth. Because leadership isn’t the function of a role.
It’s a type of interaction.
It emerges when someone, anyone, helps a group move toward shared understanding or action. My role gives me the power to ratify that movement.
To turn a moment of insight into momentum.
To help the room say: “Yes. Let’s go there.” And that’s often what people really want from me. Not to decide for them.
But to notice when something valuable has emerged and use my position to carry it forward.
To give it weight.
To reduce the friction of acting on it. Sometimes leadership is needed. Other times, it’s followership.
Stepping back, and saying: “That. What you just said. That’s where we need to go.” Until next time,
Dermot
The Messy Middle ✉️ Enjoying The Messy Middle?
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