What Does Leadership Look Like?

Have you ever seen a video of a swan gliding across a pond?

Not just the elegant view from above, but a full-body shot showing what’s happening beneath the surface.

What do you see?

Above the water, the swan moves with grace and poise, seemingly without effort. Beneath the surface, however, its legs are working furiously, paddling with intensity to maintain momentum.

This is how I help leaders visualise true leadership.

In front of your people, you are the calm swan. You glide through challenges with grace, showing composure even in turbulent times. Underneath, though, you’re paddling like crazy—making decisions, solving problems, and driving the team forward.

Sometimes, it’s important to show your team the full picture. Give them a glimpse of the effort and determination it takes to succeed. But when the chips are down and your team looks to you for guidance, they need to see the swan above the water: calm, composed, and in control.

Managers vs. Leaders: What’s the Difference?

There’s a well-known saying: People don’t quit their jobs; they quit their managers.

So how do you ensure you’re not the manager people want to leave? The answer lies in the difference between being a manager and being a leader.

Managers Focus on Tasks; Leaders Focus on Relationships

Managers tend to focus on processes, targets, and performance metrics. While these are important, they’re not the foundation of a thriving team. Leaders, on the other hand, prioritise relationships. They understand that the strength of their team lies in the trust, admiration, and respect they build with their people.

Leaders are admired because they create pleasant, fulfilling work experiences. When your team enjoys working with you, they’re more engaged, more productive, and more likely to stick around.

Leaders Reduce the Need for Micromanagement

Micromanagement is a symptom of poor relationships. If your team trusts you and feels trusted in return, you won’t need to micromanage. A strong bond with your team empowers them to take initiative and perform at their best without constant oversight.

Practical Tips to Become a Better Leader

If you’re wondering how to transition from being a manager to a leader, here are some actionable tips to strengthen your relationships:

• Learn about their interests: Take the time to understand what your team members enjoy outside of work, whether it’s sports, music, or travel.

• Know their families: Remembering people’s names and showing interest in their personal lives goes a long way in building rapport.

• Create positive nicknames: Give your team members nicknames that they like and that highlight their strengths or personality.

• Socialise thoughtfully: Spend time with your team outside of work, but keep it professional. Avoid overindulging in settings like pubs where boundaries can blur.

• Never cancel one-on-ones: Junior team members, in particular, often see these meetings as valuable opportunities for guidance. Don’t underestimate the impact of giving them your time and attention.

Leadership in Action

Let’s look at someone who embodies the qualities of a true leader: Indra Nooyi, the former CEO of PepsiCo. Nooyi was known for her exceptional ability to connect with her employees.

She wrote personal letters to the parents of her senior executives, thanking them for the values they instilled in their children. This gesture wasn’t just about showing gratitude—it built an emotional connection and fostered loyalty among her team.

Nooyi’s approach demonstrates that leadership is about more than just hitting targets. It’s about creating an environment where people feel valued, inspired, and motivated to excel.

The Takeaway

Leadership is about being the swan: composed and graceful on the surface, while working tirelessly beneath it all to drive your team’s success. It’s about prioritising relationships, building trust, and setting an example for others to follow.

If you’re striving to become a better leader, start by focusing on your people. Show them you care, empower them to grow, and remember: the right leadership can transform a team from good to exceptional.