"While I honestly wasn't conscious of it, Gary's notion of 'leading by asking' nicely captures my own style. This approach creates a more collegial attitude, it opens dialogue and shows respect for those who are closer to and have responsibility for the issues. In many cases it is also appropriate because each generation seems to be smarter than the last. As a tool, Gary's book can raise everyone's awareness of the social and intellectual power of asking rather than telling."

Captain James A. Symonds USS Ronald Reagan - Nimitz
class aircraft carrier.

Leadership Skills

What Causes People To Shut Down And Disengage From Conversation?

Due to the power differential between leaders and their team members, leaders must learn not only how to tolerate criticism, but also to restrict their criticism of others.

When we are criticized, we feel like our bodies are under attack. This fear or panic causes our prehistoric, reptilian brain to flood with blood. Rational thought is restricted, and, instead, we concentrate on our bodily impulses: fight or flight. A “flooded” person (whether it is the leader or a team member) is of little use when there is a problem to be solved.

Read the article that elaborates on the message shared above and in ths cartoon.