When you’ve entered a new executive role, how have you effectively established your personal brand?
I'm in complete agreement with the essence of Sarah’s approach. I prioritize my entire team, starting with direct reports and gradually expanding. Rather than opting for conventional seminars, I prefer exercises that foster authenticity and vulnerability.
Recently, with a new, relatively small team, I initiated a discussion about our goals for the upcoming year. The unanimous desire for improvement became evident. Seizing this opportunity, I challenged them to define what "better" meant in concrete terms. Each team member took a post-it note, jotting down their personal interpretation of "better." Importantly, I encouraged them not to share but to keep it in their workspaces, revisiting their notes daily to align actions with their definitions.
After nearly 90 days, the impact has been significant. A huge cultural shift is evident in improved customer engagement, heightened satisfaction, and boosted employee morale. This exercise is just one facet of the overall strategy, but getting remarkably specific and authentically engaging with the team yields remarkably positive results.
Firstly, the foundation lies in crafting a brand. Contemplation should guide both thought and action. I agree with Sarah and Jeff, and I follow a similar path. The elements they mentioned align with my perspective, particularly the distinction between leading and merely letting things unfold. Executing these actions, fulfilling strategic plans, and cultivating synergies with business partners, team leaders, or service line representatives are pivotal in shaping one's presence.
Effective communication emerges as a linchpin. Regular and timely dissemination of information, coupled with honed communication skills – both written and oral – are instrumental in fortifying leadership and projecting a sense of control. Prioritizing listening over reactive responses underscores a mature professional journey, a wisdom gained over time.
The concept of presence is crucial, especially in town hall meetings. However, it goes beyond that; it encompasses physically visiting locations tied to significant projects or business needs. While discussions and requirements gathering are vital, there's an added layer of insight gained by being physically present, understanding the business unit, connecting with the staff, and actively participating in the environment.
My approach involves not just talking about solutions but also actively being there—whether on the docks, in the field, or wherever the core operations unfold. This hands-on approach has become a hallmark of my professional brand. It's crucial for people to know that I'm not merely a distant figurehead engaged in strategic planning; I'm on the ground, actively listening, observing, and understanding the dynamics to devise effective business solutions.
This approach has evolved over time. While it was inherent in my early consulting career, I found the need to reintroduce and emphasize this hands-on involvement later in life. Establishing a presence in the actual business environments, engaging with the teams, and immersing myself in their world has proven to be a vital aspect of leadership. It fosters respect and credibility, showcasing a genuine commitment to understanding and addressing the intricacies of the business at all levels.
Maintaining consistency between these two spheres is key to authentic leadership – ensuring that your brand remains consistent whether you are with your team or interacting with your peers. It's about embodying a genuine and reliable leadership style while acknowledging the need to adapt to different contexts when necessary.