Four score and seven years ago, I decided that my measure of success would be if people happily picked up the phone when I called unexpectedly.
For me, that said something about who I really was at my core.
It was about that same time that I created my personal calling card. Aka, my personal leadership philosophy.
Finding Your Voice: Crafting Your Leadership Philosophy
Every senior leader eventually asks: What kind of leader am I? Or better yet, what kind of person am I?
It’s a defining question, one that shapes how you lead, inspire, and—let’s face it—whether your team groans or cheers when you decided to pop into a meeting. Finding your voice and crafting a leadership philosophy isn’t about sounding profound on LinkedIn. It’s about discovering what truly drives you—and leading from that core.
Reflect on What Matters Most
Your leadership philosophy starts with your values. Think back on pivotal moments in your career. What decisions felt deeply aligned with who you are? What decisions made you cringe later? (We’ve all got at least one “learning opportunity” under our belts.)
Ask yourself:
When have I felt most authentic in my leadership?
What non-negotiable values guide my decision-making?
These aren’t just navel-gazing questions. They’re breadcrumbs to your leadership truth.
I often ask people what job or relationship have you left because you absolutely knew you had to. What did it feel like?
Embrace Your Unique Voice
The best leaders don’t mimic—they own their quirks. Maybe you’re naturally empathetic, boldly direct, or the kind of person who explains strategy with sports analogies. Whatever your style, lean into it. Unless it’s mansplaining. Don’t lean into that.
Trying to sound like someone else? That’s not leadership—that’s karaoke. And trust me, nobody wins awards for impersonating the corporate version of Adele.
Remember: Your leadership voice isn’t a copy-paste of your favorite TED Talk. It’s yours, with all the messy brilliance that comes with it. Ask me later about thought-babies.
Gather Input from Trusted Sources
Sometimes, others see us more clearly than we see ourselves (unfortunately, this includes your tendency to “accidentally” mute your mic during tough Zoom calls). Seek feedback from colleagues, mentors, and your team. Think of this as a way to upgrade your leadership GPS—it’s not about pointing out the potholes but figuring out the best route forward. The Vistage group I lead does this with humor, grace and laser focus.
Align with Your Vision
Your philosophy isn’t carved in stone—it’s more like clay. It evolves as you grow, but it should always point to the big picture. What kind of legacy do you want to leave? A trailblazer? A builder of great teams? Or simply someone who didn’t make their team sit through another Friday afternoon status meeting?
Own Your Legacy
When you uncover your leadership voice, you don’t just lead—you inspire, connect, and leave a mark that’s unmistakably yours. So embrace what makes you you, quirks and all, and watch your leadership transform.
Because the world doesn’t need another cookie-cutter leader—it needs you.
May you Live & LeadWell,
~E
BauerHouse Coaching offers leadership development for new leaders, senior leaders and executives. www.bauerhousecoaching.com
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