Which level of leadership is based on a title?

The level of leadership based on a title is identified as positional leadership. This foundational level revolves around the authority and influence granted by a job title or position within an organization. Individuals at this level have some degree of power, primarily because of their official rank rather than personal influence or relationships with others.

Title-based leadership is often characterized by a reliance on organizational structure; followers comply with directives mainly due to the leader's formal authority. This level serves as a starting point for emerging leaders and is essential for establishing a framework for further development in leadership styles. As leaders progress through subsequent levels, such as permission, production, and ultimately to pinnacle, they build on the relationships and results that go beyond mere positional authority.