About the Episode
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About the Episode:
In this episode, Jeremy and Ken Anselment talk through a variety of common situations that many leaders face each year - including retaining staff, micromanaging, giving constructive criticism, and navigating the transition from being a colleague to being someone’s boss. They also unpack why so many leaders continue to deal with imposter syndrome.
Key Takeaways
- Leadership is Influence, Not Titles: Leadership is about setting an example, defining clear expectations, and helping others grow.
- Define Your Leadership Style: Understanding and verbalizing your leadership style helps teams align with your vision and goals.
- Empathy and Listening Are Underrated Skills: Great leaders listen deeply, tailor their approach to individual needs, and demonstrate vulnerability when appropriate.
- Tackling Imposter Syndrome: Many leaders struggle with self-doubt; combating it involves preparation, self-reflection, and leaning on trusted peers.
- Invest in Professional Development: Institutions must prioritize leadership training and development to retain and grow talent.
- Constructive Criticism Is Key: Deliver feedback quickly, clearly, and with empathy to encourage growth without eroding trust.
- Communicate Openly in Transitions: Moving into leadership from a peer role requires clear communication and boundary-setting to maintain trust.
Episode Summary
What Does It Mean to Be a Leader?
Jeremy opens the episode by challenging Ken to define leadership. Ken emphasizes that leadership isn’t about titles but about setting an example, aligning team efforts with organizational goals, and empowering individuals to grow. Reflecting on his own career, Ken notes that leadership is deeply personal, shaped by mentors, life experiences, and core values. He underscores the importance of being someone who can bring out the best in others while holding them accountable to shared expectations.
For aspiring leaders, Ken advises identifying traits of the leaders who inspire you and using those examples as a foundation to shape your own leadership style.
The Leadership Challenges in Higher Ed
Higher education faces unique leadership challenges, including resource constraints, evolving enrollment trends, and increasing demands on staff. Ken points out that many leaders are thrust into positions without adequate training or clarity about their roles. This often results in burnout or misaligned expectations between leaders and their teams.
A key takeaway from the discussion is the importance of preparing leaders through professional development and mentorship. Ken calls out the need for institutions to invest in training leaders at all levels, particularly as leadership turnover continues to disrupt the industry.
Imposter Syndrome and Self-Doubt in Leadership
One surprising theme in Ken’s book, Climbing the Admissions Leadership Peak, is the prevalence of imposter syndrome among leaders. Even highly accomplished professionals often grapple with self-doubt. Jeremy and Ken unpack the root causes, which can range from perfectionism to a lack of visible role models. For some, systemic and cultural factors exacerbate these feelings.
Ken shares that the antidote to imposter syndrome lies in preparation, leaning on trusted peers, and recognizing your own accomplishments. He encourages leaders to cultivate a “personal board of advisors”—mentors and colleagues who can provide honest feedback and support.
The Power of Listening and Empathy
Listening emerges as a cornerstone of effective leadership. Ken highlights that great leaders spend more time listening than talking, creating spaces where team members feel heard and valued. This approach not only builds trust but also helps leaders diagnose underlying issues that might be affecting performance or morale.
For leaders struggling to provide constructive feedback, Ken advises focusing on behaviors rather than personal traits and delivering criticism with empathy. He stresses that addressing issues promptly is key to fostering growth and preventing festering tensions.
Navigating Leadership Transitions
Ken shares insights on navigating leadership transitions, particularly when stepping into a role where you manage former peers. He emphasizes the importance of over-communicating, setting clear boundaries, and maintaining humility. Leaders must acknowledge the shift in dynamics while staying true to their values and prioritizing the team’s success.
Connect With Our Host:
Jeremy Tiers
https://twitter.com/CoachTiers
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