Passing the Torch: Step Up and Lead

Is corporate America stuck in a leadership rut? With over 75% of Americans perceiving a leadership crisis, there's never been a more critical time to reassess who’s at the helm. Join me, Dr. Latasha Nelson, as we dissect this hot-button issue in Thanks for Coming Back. Inspired by a recent US News and Harris Poll survey and the timeless wisdom of John Maxwell, we'll explore the impact of older business leaders clinging to power and what it's doing to the innovation and diversity necessary for today's companies. 

Drawing on Maxwell's core principle that leadership is about influence, this episode provides actionable steps for both aspiring and current leaders. We'll talk about the importance of taking initiative, demonstrating integrity, and inspiring others without waiting for a formal title. For those already in leadership roles, we'll discuss the necessity of passing the torch, fostering innovation, and leading with humility. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion packed with insights on continuous learning, building authentic relationships, and seeking mentorship to thrive in today’s dynamic corporate landscape. Whether you're looking to enhance your leadership skills or cultivate the next wave of leaders, this episode is a must-listen.

Transcript

Speaker 1: 0:26

Welcome back to Thanks for Coming Back. I'm your host, dr LaTosha Nelson, and this week's episode is inspired by two things a thought-provoking article I recently came across, and John Maxwell In a December 2023 article published in the US News. A survey about leadership in crisis caught my attention. The article shared some eye-opening statistics about leadership in corporate America and how over 75% of Americans believe there's a leadership crisis. Imagine that Three quarters of people surveyed are looking around at their workplaces and not seeing leaders they want to follow. The article also revealed that 76% of respondents think older business leaders are holding onto power and not passing the torch to the next generation. It got me thinking. What would a leadership expert like John Maxwell say about this situation? For those of you who may not know, john is one of the world's foremost authorities on leadership, having written over 100 books on the subject. His teachings focus on one central idea Leadership isn't about titles or positions. It's about influence. Maxwell's work has influenced millions of leaders around the world, and I often look to his teachings when thinking about how to lead more effectively. So today I want to explore what John Maxwell might recommend to both aspiring leaders, like many of you listening, and to those already in leadership positions, especially given the current state of corporate America.

Speaker 1: 1:53

The US News and Harris Poll survey paints a clear picture Americans are not seeing the kind of leadership they want to aspire to. In fact, 59% of respondents said I don't see any leaders at my company today that I aspire to be. This should be a wake-up call to all of us, whether we're already leading or hoping to lead. But it doesn't stop there. Over 75% of respondents agree that corporate America is in the midst of a leadership crisis. Even more striking, 76% believe that older business leaders refuse to pass the torch to the next wave of leaders. And what's the consequence of holding on to outdated leadership practices? The survey suggests that this reluctance to embrace change, diversity and fresh perspectives is causing long-term harm to companies.

Speaker 1: 2:42

So what would John Maxwell recommend for both aspiring and current leaders in light of this, I imagine that John would remind us that leadership is influence. Nothing more, nothing less. So, even if you don't hold a formal title, you have the power to influence change right where you are. Leave from where you are and remember that leadership isn't about waiting for permission. Start leading now by taking initiative, demonstrating integrity and influencing others through your actions.

Speaker 1: 3:12

People are looking for role models. They need leaders who inspire them and commit to personal growth. One of the things that John always reminds us is that leaders are learners. If we want to lead in today's rapidly changing world, we have to be committed to continuous learning. Take advantage of every opportunity to grow, whether that's reading, listening to podcasts or seeking out mentors. Build relationships, and if you're building relationships, focus on building better relationships. John reminds us that people don't care how much you know until they know how much you care as aspiring leaders. Focus on building authentic relationships. People will follow you when they trust you. Be intentional with your influence. Your ability to lead doesn't depend on a title. Every day, you can influence others by solving problems, being a positive force and stepping up where needed.

Speaker 1: 4:09

Leadership is about adding value, no matter where you are in the organization, and seek out mentorship. John reminds us that one of the greatest values of mentors is the ability to see ahead what others cannot see. Don't hesitate to seek out those who have walked the leadership path before you. They can offer valuable insights and guidance. Now let's talk about those of you who are already in leadership positions. As you might recall, in the very same survey, 76% of Americans feel that older business leaders are refusing to pass the torch. This is a significant issue because it's blocking the very innovation and diversity needed for companies to thrive. As I channel my inner John Maxwell, I think some of the key recommendations he'd make for leaders who are already at the helm would include passing the torch. A leader's lasting value is measured by succession. The best leaders don't just hold on to power. They develop others and create pathways for future leaders to step into their roles. This survey shows that Americans want fresh voices, and it's up to today's leaders to empower the next generation.

Speaker 1: 5:22

Lead with humility. Humility is so critical. The best leaders are always the ones who are the most humble. Humble leaders aren't afraid to listen, admit mistakes or take feedback from their teams. Leadership isn't about being served. It's about serving others.

Speaker 1: 5:39

Embrace change. John wisely says change is inevitable. Growth is optional. Leaders who resist change aren't just putting themselves at risk, they're putting their organizations at risk. Embrace the change. Encourage innovation and foster a culture of adaptability. Develop others. Leaders become great not because of their power, but because of their ability to empower others.

Speaker 1: 6:07

Don't let leadership be a solo act. Invest in developing your team, giving them opportunities to grow and allowing them to lead in their own right. Be values driven. John teaches that a leader with integrity has influence. Leaders need to stay grounded in their values. Integrity builds trust, and trust is the foundation of strong, effective leadership. Without it, influence is lost. Even the most seasoned leaders should continue learning.

Speaker 1: 6:40

I think of something that I've heard John say before, which is that the moment you stop learning, you stop leading. Stay curious, stay open and be willing to adapt to new information and ways of thinking. Remember, leadership is an ongoing journey. So what does all this mean? The Harris Poll revealed that 77% of respondents believe business leaders have a responsibility to help solve issues in society. It's not just about what happens in your organization. Leaders today are being called to step up and contribute to the greater good.

Speaker 1: 7:16

We're at the crossroads of a new era of leadership. People want leaders who embrace trust, collaboration and diversity. They're looking for leaders who reflect the values that matter most. Whether you're an aspiring leader or already in a leadership role, now is the time to rise to this challenge and create the kind of leadership our world desperately needs. Thank you for joining me today and thanks for coming back. If you take one thing away from this episode. Let it be this Leadership is about influence, not titles, and every single one of us, whether aspiring or experienced, has the opportunity to lead in a way that makes a positive, lasting impact. Until next time, let's keep growing, keep leading and keep making an impact in all the places we serve. I'm Dr LaZasha Nelson, and thanks for coming back.