I like this question. When we teach individuals to be leaders, we often talk about social power or the power that comes from things other than authority. What would be your list of the ways we get individuals to follow us when we do not have power over them through pay or authority?

Stripped of their titles, power and perks, most of today's "executives" would be selling shoes in a discount store (no disrespect to shoe salesmen). They couldn't manage their way out of a paper bag without a bevy of consultants and toadies.
I have been in middle management now for almost thirty-five years at large and mid-sized companies. The caliber of today's executives is appalling. Leadership has been totally redefined from what it once was - an honorable and dignified role. There is no dignity in these fast talking, buzzword spouting, gizmo-carrying, closeminded "celebrities."
The respect that employees was once held for those in positions of authority has now become replaced with mere envy for their power and material wealth.

And they wonder why I became "The Corporate Cynic."

The Gore company (Goretex) is famous for not having any official titles or management hierarchy. This allows their company to grow organically.

Too many companies use titles and organizational charts to control and stifle innovation. It takes a special culture to let leadership, creativity, and passion take charge. It threatens many incompetent managers and so is often squashed.

Great question.

This is a good test for Leaders. Additional, I find it interesting to apply the acid test to other Leaders in the organization. When you consider another Leader, if that Leader no longer had a title, would you still follow him/her. I posted this notion on my LeadQuietly blog.

Thanks for the great question and acid test.

Don