The 5 Levels Of Leadership is a model developed by John C. Maxwell, a renowned author, and speaker on leadership. According to Maxwell, leadership is not a position or a title, but a process of influence.

He argues that there are five stages of leadership development, each with its own characteristics, challenges, and opportunities. In this blog post, I will explain each level in detail and provide some examples of how to apply them in your own leadership journey.

John Calvin Maxwell is an American author and pastor who has written primarily focused on leadership. His books have made it to the New York Times Best Seller List.

John C. Maxwell draws his leadership writing inspirations from biblical teachings and the discipline it should take to be a worthy Christian. Just like any other leadership speaker and writer, his blueprint is hard work and commitment to goals and tasks.

With that said, let’s explore the 5 levels of leadership by John C. Maxwell, this teaches every level how to be successful with it

5 Levels Of Leadership

Level 1. Position

This is the lowest level of leadership, where people follow you because they have to. You have authority over them because of your position or role in the organization. People at this level rely on rules, policies, orders and procedures to get things done.

They may not have much respect or trust for you as a leader, and they may only do the minimum required to avoid punishment or being sacked. The main challenge at this level is to earn the right to lead beyond your position.

The Task: You need to demonstrate that you care about your followers as individuals, not just your followers. You need to build relationships with them, listen to their needs and concerns, and show good appreciation for their work and time.

Furthermore, develop your skills and knowledge, so that you can add value to the organization and inspire others to do the same.

level 2. Permission

This is the level where people follow you because they want to, they are in one accord with you. You have earned their permission to lead them by building trust and rapport with them. People at this level are more willing to cooperate and collaborate with you, because they feel you value and respect them.

You have created a positive work environment where people enjoy working together, where they just want to wake up at the workplace and start working. The main challenge at this level is to balance the relational aspect of leadership with the task-oriented aspect. It can daunting but very easy to pull off.

The Task: You need to set clear goals and expectations for your followers, and hold them accountable for their performance. That is how you from this level.

You need to provide feedback and coaching, and help them grow and develop their potential. You also need to delegate tasks and responsibilities, and empower your followers to make decisions and solve problems.

Level 3. Production

This is the level where people follow you because of what you have done for the organization. You have proven yourself as a leader by producing results and achieving goals. People at this level respect you for your competence and credibility.

You have created a culture of excellence and high standards at the organisation, where people are motivated to work hard and deliver quality outcomes per the standard. The main challenge at this level is to sustain the momentum and avoid complacency.

The Task: You need to develop a vision and a strategy for the future of the organization, and communicate it clearly and convincingly to your followers. You need to align your actions and decisions with the vision, and inspire others to do the same.

You also need to cultivate a sense of ownership and commitment among your followers, and encourage them to take initiative and innovate.

level 4. People Development

This is the level where people follow you because of what you have done for them. You have invested in their personal and professional growth, and helped them become leaders themselves. And they know withut yu, they wouldn’t have reached where they are.

People at this level are loyal and committed to you, because they know that you have their best interests at heart. You have created a team of leaders who can multiply your influence and impact. The main challenge at this level is to balance the development of others with your own development.

The Task: You need to continue learning and growing as a leader, and seek feedback and mentoring from others who are ahead of you.

You need to expand your network and influence beyond your immediate team or organization, and connect with other leaders who share your vision and values. You also need to model the way for your followers, and demonstrate the qualities and behaviors that you expect from them.

level 5. Pinnacle

This is the highest level of leadership, where people follow you because of who you are and what you represent. You have reached the pinnacle of your leadership potential, at this stage, your organisation is known as the brand you built it.

People at this level admire you for your character and integrity, as well as your achievements and contributions. You have created a legacy that will last beyond your lifetime, and inspired generations of leaders who will carry on your mission and vision.

The main challenge at this level is to stay humble and grateful, and avoid pride and arrogance. And be able to align.

The Task: You need to keep serving others with humility and generosity, and use your influence for good causes that benefit humanity.

You need to mentor other leaders who can succeed you in your role or position, and pass on your wisdom and experience to them. You also need to celebrate your successes with gratitude, and acknowledge the people who helped you along the way.

How To Be To A good Leader At The Pinnacle

• Be Authentic

To have a good record at the pinnacle level of leadership, you must be authentic. This means don’t change and start pretending to be what your followers don’t know you to be. Foster a culltre of integrity and accountability.

• Be Adaptable

You must be to embrace chnages anytie the need be. Do not resist new innovations and new ideas no matter who it is coming from. Take time and look into a new chnage like you care. Always be ready to adjust to new tactics and situation and the needs of your followers.

• Be Aligned

Aligned leaders are aligned and committed to the goal. At the pinncale, this one of qualities that will help you maintai your status as a legend of the ‘can do’. You must aligned with the vision of where you wnat to be and where you want to go.

By following these tips, you can become a leader who reaches and maintains yourself at the pinnacle of your potential and inspires others to do the same. Remember that leadership is not a destination, but a journey of continuous learning and improvement. As John C. Maxwell said,

“Leadership is not about titles, positions, or flowcharts. It is about one life influencing another.”

John C. Maxwell