Over the last decade, I’ve had thousands of coaching conversations with clients who want to become more effective leaders.
While every conversation is unique, specific themes consistently emerge.
One such theme is that many leaders try to lead from a position of expertise. They focus on being the intelligent, informed expert, often to the point of coming across as cocky or overconfident micromanagers.
This approach turns leadership into a game of “Facts and Figures,” where success is measured by how much information they can control and convey.
Effective leadership requires a different approach.
Instead of leading from a position of expertise, leaders should shift to leading from a position of relationship.
Instead of playing the “Facts and Figures” game, leaders should play a game focused on “Connection and Collaboration.”
This subtle but powerful shift can transform their effectiveness and the overall dynamics of their teams.
Are You Hiding In An Ivory Tower?
When leaders rely too much on information and expertise, they subconsciously isolate themselves.
By relying too heavily on information, they create an environment where facts and figures precede personal interactions and relationship-building. This approach can make them appear distant and unapproachable, leading to a lack of open communication and trust within the team.
If this approach kicks into overdrive, the leader becomes more focused on maintaining their image as an expert rather than fostering a supportive and collaborative atmosphere.
As a result, they miss out on valuable insights and feedback from their team, ultimately hindering their effectiveness and the group’s overall success.
In my opinion, this is one of the biggest mistakes a leader makes.
By over-indexing information and expertise, they withdraw from others and withhold their greatest gift to the organization—their mere presence.
Pivoting Towards Presence
If there is one thing I want all my clients to know, it is this:
If you want to be a highly effective leader, you have to be yourself.
Authenticity is essential, and you definitely can’t fake it to make it. People don’t want to follow someone who isn’t authentic.
But there is an important point I want to make here. Isolating yourself from others and over-indexing on information and expertise isn’t the true you! When you hide out in that ivory tower and try to outthink everyone, you aren’t being your authentic self. You are actually using information as a shield to protect yourself.
Putting information ahead of connection keeps us from being our best selves. The stories we tell ourselves about not liking or needing other people are lies we tell to protect ourselves from the struggles and vulnerabilities of human relationships. These lies create barriers between us and those we lead, preventing genuine connection and authentic leadership.
Genuine authenticity comes from embracing the human aspects of leadership. It involves acknowledging our vulnerabilities, opening ourselves up to others, and fostering meaningful connections. By stepping out of the ivory tower and engaging with your team personally, you demonstrate genuine care and build trust. This shift from prioritizing information to valuing relationships allows you to lead with authenticity and presence, creating a more cohesive and motivated team.
In essence, pivoting towards presence means recognizing that your leadership value exceeds your expertise. It’s about being present, building relationships, and leading with authenticity. When you embrace this approach, you unlock the true potential of your leadership and create an environment where everyone can thrive.
How to Get Started Today
If you want to prioritize connection and collaboration over facts and figures, there’s no better time to begin than now.
Start by setting aside dedicated time each week to personally connect with your team members. Schedule one-on-one meetings to understand their challenges, aspirations, and feedback. Make these interactions a priority and approach them with genuine curiosity and openness. This small but significant step can lay the foundation for stronger relationships and a more engaged team.
If you want to take your leadership to the next level, let’s discuss my subtle shifts coaching program—a bespoke offering that can help you enhance your leadership and build stronger connections with the people you lead. Schedule a meeting to learn more.
