And more opportunities are likely to result from a successful reputation. T he change or legacy of a good leader will last long after the leader has left the role . In fact, the lengths of time the results last are one of the best indicators of the effectiveness of a leader. O fficial positions do not necessarily produce leadership. However, there is often confusion in the public over this difference.
Many people assume that because some one is in an official position, they are a leader.
Former president Jimmy Carter was in the world's most powerful position, but historical accounts suggest that he had relatively little impact as a leader during his presidency. There are many in official positions such as school board members, city council members, legislators, ministers, etc. who are not leaders regularly and some never become leaders. They incorrectly assume that when they achieve a position they automatically become a leader. Some develop into leaders when a crisis arises or the situation otherwise changes. Wars have made leaders out of many generals.