“Don’t let fear of being misunderstood stop you from doing the right thing. Just show up, follow through, and the trust will follow.”
I’ve had countless conversations with leaders about becoming more visible. Visibility doesn’t just mean being seen. It means being trusted. In this episode, Katie and I talk about what it really takes to step out of the leadership office and onto the concrete so you can connect with your team in a meaningful, authentic way. Leadership visibility matters and there are ways you can get it right.
One of the biggest hurdles I see is fear: fear of being misunderstood, of stepping on toes, or of unintentionally undermining others. That’s valid. But that fear shouldn’t stop you. Becoming a visible leader starts with intention and follow-through. Let people know why you’re showing up on the front lines. Explain that you’re there to learn, support, and grow with them. And then do just that.
We also talked about how to avoid disrupting team dynamics. Swooping in with changes on day one is not going to go well. It takes building trust over time, guiding people to the right resources, and highlighting what’s working. Trust is earned when words and actions align.
Yes, being visible might make some people uncomfortable. But when you consistently lead with purpose and humility, the right people notice and the culture shifts for the better. That’s the kind of leadership that leaves a legacy.
Notable Moments:
[01:00] Why visible leadership can feel uncomfortable
[03:30] Addressing skepticism and building trust
[05:00] Avoiding the perception of undermining managers
[07:10] The 90-day no-sweeping-changes rule
[09:55] What to do when your visibility causes tension
[11:35] Healthy turnover and leadership alignment
[14:00] How to point out the good and make it stick
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