The Hidden Challenge of Leadership
One of the best parts of speaking regularly to banker groups is watching in real time when a topic really connects. You can see people leaning in and smiling when it’s something they’ve experienced or observed themselves.
The Bubble Effect
In a recent talk, I brought up what I think is one of leadership’s universal paradoxes. No matter the title — department head, team lead, president, CEO — the more successful you are, the more likely you are to face a hidden challenge: the bubble.
It’s a bubble that usually forms almost invisibly around leaders. Not by design, but by nature. The more responsibility you have, the more your days are spent with people who either report to you or have a vested interest in keeping you happy.
Over time, pieces of everyday reality stop making it to your desk or inbox. Bad news fails to penetrate the bubble, and leaders may become detached from the everyday challenges their teams face.
Breaking the Bubble
“Popping the bubble” doesn’t mean abandoning trust or micromanaging. It means maintaining habits that keep you grounded in the real world. Here are some strategies to burst the bubble:
Stay Grounded
Be on the front lines often enough that people don’t treat your visit like breaking news. Join sales calls, handle problem customers, and ask real questions to stay connected to your team and customers.
Encourage Honest Feedback
Strive to have and protect a “We don’t shoot the messenger” policy that encourages honest questions and feedback from the field. Teams tend to respect and trust leaders who go out of their way to remain approachable and involved.
Lead by Example
Leading by example is more than a slogan — it’s a proven strategy. Teams sense when a leader steps in and steps up, even when they could easily avoid it. By staying involved and connected, leaders can build trust and respect within their teams.
Conclusion
Avoiding the bubble isn’t about doing more work — it’s about making sure the work you do keeps you truly connected to your team, your customers, and your business. Bursting the bubble can lead to improved leadership effectiveness and stronger relationships with your team.
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