What the best leaders do

The best leaders aren’t the people with the best numbers. They’re the people who constantly read and react to what their teams need at the time. Continued learning, continued talking with the team, and continued self-awareness and development are the cornerstones to being a strong leader, be it 2021 or 2035.  -- David Rock, Leadership Strategist at Forbes.

This quote was like a breath of fresh air when I read it recently!

For far too long we’ve rewarded leaders with the best numbers without considering the cost on the people to get those numbers.

In today’s world of constant change, complexity and ambiguity, we’re realizing that what matters are leaders who are connected to their teams. 

The best leaders:

• Are in constant conversation with their direct reports.
• Use a coaching approach that brings out the best in their employees.
• Engage with those around them in a way that promotes new insights and ideas 
• Show curiosity and ask questions which create the opportunity for their teams to think strategically, as well as observe and reflect. 
• Acknowledge growth and development in their team members as well as themselves.
• Make room for failure for the purpose of learning and growing. They make it safe for their teams to experiment and make mistakes.

​No one person can know enough to make wise decisions. It takes the perspective of everyone and the willingness to listen to key stakeholders to understand the latest needs and changes in the marketplace.

Diversity matters. Building the confidence and leadership skills of women matters. Almost every organization needs more women leaders at the top.

One of the fastest ways to get women ready for advancement is learning with other like-minded women.


I see it all the time during the Women Manager Leadership Development cohort. The excitement, the exchange of ideas, the building of new skills and confidence. 

Taking the time to determine their next career steps creates enthusiasm and determination that is invaluable.

Our next Women Manager’s Leadership Cohort starts on July 15.

If you’ve already participated in the Cohort you know how much it can boost your confidence and transform your career.

If you haven’t yet participated, now is a golden opportunity.

If you have women managers on your team who want to make a bigger contribution and advance, please encourage them to enroll.

This is my favorite training program of all time, because it makes such a significant difference in the careers of the women who participate.

For more information and to register for the July 15 Women Manager Leadership Cohort click here: https://www.wiseleader.net/women-managers-cohort.html

Rita Webster, Ph.D.
The Executive Coach for Women Leaders
612-598-6614
http://www.wiseleader.net/

 PS: If you’d like to read more from the Forbes article, click here.

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