You're Not the Boss—You're Part of the Team
Jul 02, 2025
One of the biggest mindset shifts I had to make as a leader—and one I constantly challenge others to make is this:
Your people don’t work for you.
They work with you.
That may sound like a small difference in words, but it’s a massive difference in leadership impact.
The “Work For Me” Trap
Too many leaders fall into the trap of thinking that leadership means having all the answers, giving all the directions, and being the smartest person in the room. That kind of mindset tells your people, “You work for me,” which often translates to, “You’re here to do what I say.”
And that right there kills creativity. It stifles collaboration. It builds walls between you and your team rather than bridges. When people feel like they work for someone instead of with them, they often hesitate to speak up, contribute ideas, or challenge the status quo—even when it would benefit the organization.
Let me tell you—just because you’re the leader doesn’t mean you’re always right.
A Team Mindset Starts at the Top
If you want to get the best out of your people, you have to create an environment where they feel respected, heard, and valued. That begins with you as the leader. You set the tone for your team’s culture. If you’re open, inclusive, and focused on we instead of me, your people will respond with trust, effort, and ownership.
Here’s the key: Create a team environment where every voice matters. You don’t lose control by listening—you gain influence.
5 Practical Tips for Creating a "Work With Me" Culture
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Ask for input—and mean it.
Don’t just ask to check a box. Be intentional. Ask your people what they think before decisions are made. When people are part of the process, they’ll be more committed to the outcome. -
Stop saying “my team”—start saying “our team.”
Words matter. Make sure your language reflects shared ownership. You’re not leading subordinates; you’re leading teammates. -
Recognize great ideas—regardless of rank.
Some of the best ideas I’ve ever implemented came from those not in leadership roles. Be humble enough to acknowledge that insight and innovation can come from anywhere. -
Share your vision—then invite collaboration.
Give your people the bigger picture. Then let them help build the road to get there. Shared vision fuels shared success. -
Model vulnerability and humility.
Be okay with saying “I don’t know” or “You’re right.” That shows strength, not weakness. It sets a precedent that being human is allowed—even in leadership.
Encouragement for Leaders
Leadership isn’t about proving you're the smartest person in the room. It’s about creating an atmosphere where everyone in the room gets smarter—together. When you lead with a mindset of collaboration over control, you not only raise your team’s performance, you raise their sense of purpose.
So I challenge you today:
Stop leading like the boss.
Start leading like a teammate.
The best outcomes are created by teams, not individuals.
Let’s get to work—together.
—Dean Crisp
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