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Informal leadership in the workplace


An informal leader, as the title suggests, is a position of leadership that you acquire via your influence over colleagues at work. Having the ability to have an impact on your co-workers without holding a position of authority or being someone, others look up to.


What is informal leadership?


The capacity of a person to be perceived as a leader because of their standing and clout at work is referred to as informal leadership. Usually, there is no official authority to support this leadership. Their capacity to lead is founded on the regard and confidence people have in them at work.


Characteristics of an informal leader


The majority of people who qualify as informal leaders have key traits. Your ability to grow will be aided by your knowledge of these traits. Remember that these traits are acquired over time by informal leaders.


The following traits are typical of informal leaders:

  • Informal leaders readily offer their assistance. They understand what has to be done and carry it out without expecting anything in return. They are not interested in the assistance being provided, in other words.

  • They are adept at building connections. They widen their perspectives and relationships by becoming friends with a variety of people, not only those they have common interests with. They do not also identify with any particular clique.

  • Informal leaders have a deep understanding of the company - its policies, its goals, its culture etc.

  • They frequently learn about new methods and technology before anybody else, demonstrating to others that they are not following anyone.

  • Informal leaders are great listeners - They consider all viewpoints before making a decision in the workplace.

  • Informal leaders focus on offering answers to any issue and confronting it head-on.

  • They exhibit humility and avoid projecting an air of superiority. Regardless of their level of expertise, they are always eager to learn.

  • They assume responsibility and accountability.

  • They work well in teams and collaborate with others, which fosters trust.


Informal leaders may consider how they may progressively enhance their reputation without feeling overwhelmed by evaluating their talents and concentrating on a few of them at once.


In summary, companies benefit greatly from having informal leaders, who can also help formal official leaders succeed.


Email us at: enquiries@ovacgroup.com for a free consultation with our team specialists.

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