I’ve been managing various teams for over a decade, and I definitely have developed a style. It’s flexible and works well in a wide variety of situations, especially remote and distributed teams. I tend to be equal parts coach, mentor and cheerleader. The best leaders can motivate and encourage as well as clear obstacles, provide guidance, and even establish boundaries — while treating people with respect and dignity.
Leadership kind of snuck up on me, and it wasn’t until someone pointed out that people tended to look up to me that I started to embrace the role. I’m more of an introvert than it might seem, and in my early professional years I tended to hang back and see what others would do. I learned a lot that way, and I’m grateful for many mentors and teachers who have helped shape my style.
Still, it’s a journey. I never claim to have all the answers, and I’ll never want to stop learning and getting better. I think the best leaders are more focused on the success of their teams than they are on their own accolades, and I’m happy to say that my greatest successes have been my teams’ successes.