I like to think that a person can be a leader at any level of the organization. Those at the bottom, the middle or the top or anywhere in between can be a leader for the organization and their groups. The difference is how you lead. When you are at the top, such as the CEO, you have more power to lead through verbal communication. You can make bold statements, outline a vision and rally the troops to follow along. When you are at the bottom, however, this most likely won’t work. You’re more likely to have a bunch of people looking at you in a funny way, saying something along the lines of “who died and made you king?”.

When you are at the lower levels of the organization, or not in a formal leadership or management position, the best way to lead is through your actions. People will take notice of how you act and what decisions you are making. If your manager is good, and you work for those who are observant, you will be notice and recognized. People will be more likely to follow along and act in the same manner if they see you getting ahead by doing the right thing. Especially if it comes to a change program, your actions can speak louder than words. If people see you being a champion through your actions, they will be more likely to jump on board as well.

Leadership is about communication – and the method used to communicate will vary by your level. You non-verbal actions will say a lot about you and what you believe.