Are You the Kind of Leader People Want to Follow?

Why Leadership is More Than Just a Title

When I was working on my MBA, I came across an article on leadership that profoundly impacted me. I’ve met plenty of people with impressive titles who assume they’re leaders simply because of their position. But true leadership isn’t about rank or authority—it’s about the ability to inspire and connect with people on a deeper level; it’s about touching people’s hearts, minds, and spirits.

Leadership isn’t about holding a fancy title or making big decisions. It’s about inspiring others to follow—not because they have to, but because they want to. So, here’s a question every leader should ask:

Are you the kind of leader people want to follow?

Most leadership advice focuses on vision, energy, and authority. But research by Robert Goffee and Gareth Jones suggests that truly inspirational leaders share four unexpected qualities. These traits go beyond strategy and decision-making—they make people want to follow.

Let’s break them down with real-life examples of leaders who have mastered each.

1. Show Your Human Side (Selectively)

Nobody wants to follow a leader who acts like they have all the answers. Showing vulnerability makes you more relatable and trustworthy. The key? Reveal your weaknesses selectively—in a way that builds connection, not doubt.

Example: Tim Cook (CEO, Apple)

When Tim Cook took over as Apple’s CEO, he didn’t try to imitate Steve Jobs’ aggressive, visionary style. Instead, he leaned into his own strengths: humility, collaboration, and operational excellence. He openly admits when he’s learning and places emphasis on teamwork rather than individual genius. His approach has helped Apple maintain its innovative culture while fostering a more inclusive and values-driven workplace.

Takeaway: Authenticity builds trust. You don’t need to be perfect—just real.

2. Develop a Sixth Sense for People

Great leaders don’t just listen to words; they pick up on unspoken emotions, body language, and team dynamics. The ability to sense what’s going on beneath the surface can make all the difference.

Example: Satya Nadella (CEO, Microsoft)

When Nadella took over Microsoft in 2014, he recognized that the company’s biggest challenge wasn’t technology—it was culture. By listening deeply and sensing unspoken frustrations, he shifted Microsoft from a rigid, competitive environment to one that embraced collaboration and learning. His ability to pick up on the emotional pulse of his employees helped transform Microsoft into one of the world’s most innovative companies.

Takeaway: Leadership isn’t just about speaking—it’s about sensing and understanding your people.

3. Master the Art of Tough Empathy

Empathy in leadership doesn’t mean being soft—it means caring enough to challenge people to be their best. Great leaders balance kindness with high expectations.

Example: Steve Jobs (Co-Founder, Apple)

Jobs was famously demanding, but he also cared deeply about pushing his employees to achieve greatness. He didn’t give people what they wanted; he gave them what they needed to excel. His tough empathy led to groundbreaking innovations like the iPhone, MacBook, and iPad.

Example: Greg Dyke (Former CEO, BBC)

When Dyke took over the BBC, he knew the company needed restructuring to stay competitive. He made tough decisions—including job cuts—but he communicated openly and honestly, ensuring employees understood the bigger picture. His ability to balance empathy with decisive action earned him respect.

Takeaway: Tough empathy means caring enough to challenge your team to grow.

4. Dare to Be Different

True leadership requires embracing what makes you unique. Many of the most successful leaders in history have been those who dared to be different, turning what could be perceived as weaknesses into strengths.

It takes courage to lean into your differences rather than trying to minimize them. Whether it’s a unique background, an accent, or an unconventional approach to leadership, these characteristics can set you apart and make you more memorable and relatable. The key is to see these traits not as limitations but as advantages. When leaders own their uniqueness, they inspire others to do the same.

Example: Sara Blakely (Founder, Spanx)

Blakely built Spanx into a billion-dollar brand by embracing her unconventional approach. She had no formal business training but used humor, storytelling, and authenticity to connect with employees and customers. Her willingness to stand out helped her create a relatable and inspiring leadership style.

Example: Tim Cook (CEO, Apple)

Unlike his predecessor, Steve Jobs, Cook doesn’t seek the spotlight. Instead, he differentiates himself by prioritizing values like sustainability, privacy, and inclusivity. By staying true to his own leadership style, he’s led Apple to new heights without trying to replicate Jobs’ charisma.

Takeaway: Being different is an advantage—embrace your uniqueness.

Final Thoughts: The Leadership Challenge

The best leaders don’t follow a formula—they embrace their unique strengths, connect with people on a deeper level, and push their teams to achieve more.

So, here’s your challenge:

Are you the kind of leader people want to follow?

Drop a comment and share your thoughts—what leadership trait resonates with you the most? Let’s start the conversation.