Why Is Most Leadership Advice Wrong?

I used to think that if you have a good encompassing leadership model and you simply follow that, you are on your way as a leader! Now my perspective has changed a bit!

Not to make any of the models wrong - I use some as well in my training, and at the same time, what I find is that they are usually incomplete and oversimplified. This leads me to the first advice that I find misleading:

The Myth of the One-Size-Fits-All Approach

One of the biggest misconceptions is the idea that there is a universal set of rules or principles that apply to all leaders, in all situations, at all times. It is the same as saying to all human beings: you are the same - behave only this way!?

Leadership is deeply contextual. What works in one organization might fail spectacularly in another. We cannot apply the same leadership principles to a tech start-up and a well established manufacturing company!

The unique culture, team dynamics, industry specifics, and individual personalities all play critical roles in shaping what effective leadership looks like.

The Fallacy of Perfection

I usually ask at the beginning of my training “What is a good leader?” to observe the perception of what qualities a good leader has. At the same time I have read many leadership books and other resources that promote the idea of the perfect leader – someone who is always confident, always decisive, and always inspiring. This image is not only unrealistic but also damaging. Striving for this unattainable ideal can lead to burnout and a sense of perpetual inadequacy. The reality is that all leaders have flaws, make mistakes, and face doubts. They are human after all! Embracing vulnerability and authenticity often leads to stronger, more genuine connections with your team.

The Overemphasis on Charisma

Charisma is usually one of the main traits that I hear in all my training about what makes a good leader! While it can certainly be beneficial, it’s not the be-all and end-all. Many successful leaders are introverted, thoughtful, and even reserved. What truly matters is the ability to connect with your team, understand their needs, and inspire them towards a common goal – and this can be achieved through a variety of personal styles.

Take for example Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, who is known for his empathetic and inclusive leadership style rather than traditional charismatic traits. His focus on empathy, listening, and fostering a growth mindset has been instrumental in transforming Microsoft’s culture and driving its success.

Ignoring the Importance of Adaptability

Adaptability is crucial! I have mentioned it before and am mentioning it again: if you only adopt one leadership style, you will fail as a leader! The most effective leaders are those who can adapt their approach based on the situation and the people they are leading. This means being flexible, open to feedback, and willing to change course when necessary. Adaptability is a key component of resilience, which is crucial for navigating the complex and often unpredictable landscape of leadership.?

Not to go too far into the past, but simply bring to mind here COVID-19 how quickly some business models changed. ?

The Misguided Focus on Results Over People

I was so inspired by a CEO recently that he took his team on a retreat only to connect, be, recharge and have fun! People are not just resources; they are individuals with unique strengths, aspirations, and challenges. Get to know them!?

I am glad to witness that more and more leaders are realising this and transforming company cultures to focus more on people!

The Reality of Continuous Learning

Finally, there is a pervasive myth that once you’ve reached a certain level of leadership, you’ve got it all figured out. In reality, leadership is a continuous journey of learning and growth. The most successful leaders are those who remain curious, seek out new knowledge, and are always looking for ways to improve themselves and their teams.

Bill Gates is an inspiration here with his reading lists and thirst for knowledge.?

The best advice I can give to current and aspiring leaders is to think critically about the popular wisdom and adapt strategies that resonate with your unique context and personal style. Embrace your imperfections, stay adaptable, focus on people over metrics, and commit to continuous learning. Leadership is as much about the journey as it is about the destination, and every leader’s path is uniquely their own.

If you need support during this journey, let’s have a chat!