Own Your Leadership Blog: Stories and Real Talk for Leaders

Managing a Difficult Situation Within Your Team When Expectations Aren’t Aligned

Managing a Difficult Situation Within Your Team When Expectations Aren’t Aligned

Managing a difficult situation within your team isn’t always about conflict or poor performance. Sometimes it’s about misaligned expectations, differing levels of effort, and unspoken assumptions about what “good work” looks like. This blog explores how leaders can navigate these grey areas with clarity, compassion, and confidence, without lowering standards or avoiding difficult conversations.

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Why Great Leaders Flex Their Leadership Styles

Why Great Leaders Flex Their Leadership Styles

When I first stepped into a formal leadership role, I thought asking questions was a way to connect. Standing awkwardly at the photocopier, I asked a colleague about recent assessment changes – only to have her think I was being judgemental. That moment taught me a powerful lesson: effective leadership isn’t just about curiosity or authority – it’s about flexing your leadership style to match the situation and the person.

Goleman’s six leadership styles show us that the right approach depends on trust, context, and connection. Sometimes we lead with coaching, sometimes with vision, and sometimes with an affiliative style to build rapport first. Knowing when and how to switch is what makes leadership truly effective.

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Leadership Presence: Influence with Impact
Leadership Development Sharon Smith Leadership Development Sharon Smith

Leadership Presence: Influence with Impact

Leadership presence isn’t about being the loudest in the room. It’s about showing up with calm confidence, staying grounded in who you are, and leading in a way that feels authentic. If you’ve ever felt the pressure to perform or prove yourself, this blog offers a fresh take on what presence really means – and how to build it without losing yourself.

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