How to Spot a Fake Leader in 3 Seconds?

Read time: 2.5 minutes

But here's the real test:

→ The barista who gets your complicated order right but you still don't know their name.

→ The cleaner who empties your trash while you ignore them.

→ The intern everyone talks over in meetings.

→ The delivery driver you don't even make eye contact with.

Why This Matters More Than Your Quarterly Results?

Research shows most workplace dissatisfaction stems from feeling invisible—not underpaid. The best leaders understand:

What's whispered in the break room > What's announced in the boardroom

That "unimportant" receptionist?

• Knows which executives are actually approachable

• Sees who's rude before their first coffee

• Could tell you who really runs the company

The overnight security guard?

• Witnesses what happens when the suits leave

• Knows which departments stay late (and which just pretend to)

• Could predict layoffs before HR does

The Resume vs. Reality Check:

Your LinkedIn screams "servant leadership"; but does the night cleaning crew agree?

Your values statement claims "respect for all"; would the building security team confirm?

You preach "emotional intelligence"; what would the mailroom staff say about your team?

Career-changing insight: The most successful leaders I know have one trait in common... they're equally present talking to the intern as they are with the board.

3 Signs You're Passing the Real Leadership Test:

1. You know more maintenance staff names than executive nicknames.

2. Your "good morning" sounds the same to interns and VPs.

3. You notice when regulars disappear (the cafeteria worker, the mail clerk).