The adage that, ‘actions speak louder than words’ is true, particularly when it comes to leadership.

A strong leadership brand as a feature of the employer brand can be very powerful. Leaders who exhibit valued behaviors and hold others accountable for the same can become brand ambassadors, and significantly affect employee engagement, retention and attraction. Leadership is the catalyst for magic to occur, but it doesn’t always need to come from above.

Current and emerging organizational structures allow and require everyone to lead—it’s no longer solely the domain of managers. Leadership behaviors such as the ability to collaborate, innovate, and achieve collective goals apply equally whether you are leading a short-term project team, or you’re part of a permanent team that will be together indefinitely.

At Kelly®, our journey to a leadership brand started with the creation and broad use of a leadership model. The model, dubbed the “Leadership Blueprint,” lays out a balanced image and description of mission- and value-based behaviors, which are expected of all who lead.

It’s used as the backdrop for important talent processes, including performance management, career development and selection. It also has been shared with customers and candidates as a foundation important in our employer brand.

This post is an excerpt of What Really Shapes Careers?