Walking the Talk: Leading by Example through John Maxwell's 5 Levels of Leadership

In leadership, actions are more compelling than words. John Maxwell, a renowned expert on leadership, captures this idea with his quote: “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” This statement challenges leaders to “walk the talk,” to inspire through their actions, and to earn the trust and loyalty of those they lead. When leaders live out the principles they promote, they create a culture of authenticity and commitment within their team. Maxwell’s “5 Levels of Leadership” model offers a progressive roadmap for leaders striving to embody these values at each stage of their journey. It provides a structure that allows leaders to grow their influence while holding themselves accountable to the highest standards of integrity. Let's dive into each level and explore how leaders can use each stage to “walk the talk” and make a lasting impact.

Level 1: Position – Leading with Integrity Beyond the Title

At the first level, leadership is based on position or title. At this foundational stage, people follow a leader because they have to, not necessarily because they want to. However, true leadership requires more than a title; it requires integrity. Leaders who walk the talk at this level understand that their behavior sets the tone for the team. By consistently showing fairness, honesty, and respect, they communicate to their team that they value ethical standards and take their role seriously.

The challenge at this stage is to move beyond simply being a “boss” and become a respected leader by using your position to build trust, not just enforce rules. It’s about embodying integrity in everything you do, from keeping promises to maintaining a respectful and professional environment. Commit to actions that align with your words—whether it’s showing up on time, meeting deadlines, or acknowledging mistakes when they happen. The result is a foundation of trust where team members view you not only as an authority figure but as someone who leads with principle. This consistency reassures your team that they can rely on you, setting a solid base for future influence. Walking the talk in the context of integrity allows you to transform a title into a symbol of responsibility and respect.

Level 2: Permission – Building Genuine Relationships and Trust

As leaders progress to Level 2, leadership becomes relational. Here, people follow because they want to, not because they are required to. Leaders who walk the talk at this level understand that the strength of their influence lies in building authentic connections with their team. This involves being approachable, empathetic, and showing genuine concern for the well-being of each person on the team. By demonstrating that they care, leaders cultivate loyalty and trust, which can drive extraordinary results.

The challenge at this level is to go beyond surface-level connections and genuinely seek to understand each team member’s unique strengths, motivations, and needs. Commit to regular one-on-one conversations, where you actively listen, show empathy, and take an interest in personal and professional goals. It may also mean being available for informal check-ins, expressing appreciation for individual contributions, or providing support during challenging times. The result is a culture of respect and openness, where people feel valued and understood. This approach inspires commitment beyond just completing tasks and creates a sense of belonging and loyalty. At Level 2, walking the talk in relationship-building ensures that you are seen as more than a leader; you become a trusted ally.

Level 3: Production – Leading by Example to Deliver Results

Level 3 is where leadership impact begins to manifest in tangible results. People follow because of what the leader has accomplished and how they contribute to the team’s success. At this stage, leaders must “walk the talk” by consistently meeting goals, demonstrating resilience, and maintaining high standards. Leaders who excel at Level 3 understand that they are setting an example in work ethic, productivity, and commitment. It’s not just about giving orders; it’s about rolling up their sleeves and actively participating in the work, demonstrating accountability and determination.

The challenge at this level is to balance the responsibilities of a leader with direct contributions to the team’s success. Commit to being visible in your efforts, tackling challenges head-on, and participating in important projects. This might mean taking on a portion of the workload during busy times, finding innovative solutions to team challenges, or maintaining a positive attitude even under pressure. The result is a team inspired by your actions, more likely to go the extra mile because they see their leader doing the same. When you lead by example, you create a standard that others aspire to follow. Walking the talk at Level 3 demonstrates to your team that you’re not just a figurehead—you’re a leader who values accountability and dedication to results.

Level 4: People Development – Empowering Others and Creating Future Leaders

As leaders advance to Level 4, the focus shifts from personal achievement to developing others. Leaders who walk the talk here understand that their role is to help others reach their potential, creating a pipeline of future leaders who will contribute to the organization’s success. They commit to mentorship, offering feedback, and creating opportunities for growth, setting a legacy that goes beyond their direct influence.

The challenge at Level 4 is to genuinely invest time in identifying and nurturing potential leaders within your team. This means recognizing strengths, providing guidance, and being patient as team members learn and grow. Commit to creating a structured development path for individuals, offering coaching sessions, constructive feedback, and the autonomy to tackle challenges. It may also mean allowing room for mistakes and using them as learning opportunities, rather than stepping in to correct every action. The result is a team that feels empowered and valued, ready to take on leadership responsibilities themselves. By demonstrating the importance of people development, you inspire a culture where growth is a priority, and everyone is encouraged to reach their fullest potential. Walking the talk at this level means that you lead by lifting others, creating a ripple effect of positive impact throughout the organization.

Level 5: Pinnacle – Inspiring with a Lasting Legacy

The fifth and final level of leadership, Pinnacle, is about influence and legacy. At this level, people follow because of who the leader is and what they represent. Pinnacle leaders have achieved a reputation that inspires and influences not only their team but the organization and beyond. Here, walking the talk involves embodying every value you hold dear, making decisions that reflect long-term vision, and prioritizing the greater good over personal gain. Pinnacle leaders are both visionary and deeply ethical, leaving behind a legacy that shapes the culture of their organization.

The challenge at Level 5 is to make choices and set examples that reinforce your core beliefs and purpose. Every action should reflect the legacy you hope to leave behind, whether it’s championing innovation, supporting inclusion, or setting new ethical standards. Commit to living out your vision through your choices, consistently modeling the principles you want others to adopt. This might mean advocating for important causes, mentoring future leaders outside your immediate team, or leading initiatives that align with your values. The result is an enduring impact—a team, organization, or community inspired by the standards you’ve set and motivated to continue your work. Walking the talk at this level means leading by example with a focus on long-term influence, creating a culture that transcends individual leaders and inspires future generations.

Why Walking the Talk is Essential for Leadership

Walking the talk is more than a leadership practice; it’s the foundation of genuine influence. When leaders’ actions align with their words, they build a culture of trust and accountability. People are naturally drawn to leaders they can rely on, who demonstrate their principles consistently. This creates a ripple effect where teams adopt similar values, take ownership of their roles, and work toward shared goals with greater commitment. Leaders who walk the talk encourage others to step up, creating a culture where excellence, respect, and integrity are more than just ideals—they’re realities.

Call to Action: Challenge, Commit, and Lead by Example

As you reflect on Maxwell’s 5 Levels of Leadership, consider your own path and where you are today. Challenge yourself to identify the level at which you currently operate and recognize the steps needed to reach the next. Are you demonstrating integrity and relationship-building, or are you actively mentoring future leaders? Identify the areas where you need to improve and the actions that will make the most impact.

Commit to specific, measurable actions that will help you embody the qualities of a leader who walks the talk. Whether it’s building stronger relationships, enhancing your productivity, or investing in the growth of others, set tangible goals that align with Maxwell’s framework. By consistently taking steps to lead by example, you’ll inspire trust, dedication, and a willingness to achieve.

Finally, Lead by Example: walk the talk daily. Hold yourself accountable to the values you expect from others. Set the standard and uphold it, not just when things are easy, but especially when they’re challenging. By acting as a role model for your team, you can foster an environment of mutual respect and shared purpose, elevating the entire organization.

Conclusion

John Maxwell’s 5 Levels of Leadership provides a valuable framework for leaders aiming to grow their influence and create a positive, lasting impact. Walking the talk is the central theme at each level—it’s the driver behind authentic connections, tangible results, and the development of future leaders. At every stage, your actions matter as much as, if not more than, your words.

By consistently leading by example, you cultivate a culture of trust, inspire others to commit to shared goals, and leave a legacy that reflects the values you hold dear. Embrace the challenge, make a commitment to growth, and lead in a way that inspires others to follow. Your leadership journey isn’t just about advancing to the next level; it’s about embodying the values of integrity, respect, and responsibility that create a foundation for a thriving, resilient organization. As you progress, remember Maxwell’s call: “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” Be that leader—and walk the talk.