Does your team follow you because you inspire them or because they report to you? The answer lies in whether you command respect or you demand it.

I've work for both types of leaders and I can tell you the performance of a team is greatly impacted by these leadership styles.

I worked for a leader who commanded respect because he truly cared for the hundreds of team members who worked for him. He was passionate about the business and instilled that passion in others. The outcome was we never wanted to let him down.

The leader who demanded respect made sure to let you know his title and remind you that you worked for him. He didn't listen and claimed credit for ideas. He held others back so he could personally have recognition.

Let's contrast the two:

Your team WANTS to follow you- when you care for and respect your team, they are inspired to follow you. They know you have their best interests and that of the company at heart. Your team will stick with you through the most difficult challenges and strive to perform at the highest levels.

Your team is FORCED to follow you- when you operate in a command and control manner people tend to shutdown. If you constantly remind them you know more or represent their ideas as your own, they will lose respect for you and no longer be motivated to do their best work. Standing on the backs of others does not foster an environment for high achievement.

Working for a leader who demanded respect was one of the most de-motivating experiences I have had in my career- and I am a very driven person.

As you move up in your career, be aware of how you are relating to those working with and for you.

Inspire them to respect and follow you, its much more effective than demanding it.