On Learning to Lead we have a powerful community where we can learn from each other. This weekend we interviewed Courtney Kissler who has had an impressive career in technology ranging from start-ups to Nordstrom, Starbucks, Nike and most recently Zuilly. Her leadership journey is filled with many lessons and insights and it was a thought-provoking conversation. Here are a few highlights:
Storytelling is critical whether you are in a start-up pitching to VCs, or leading teams and influencing others. Practice your materials, when faced with tough questions take time to process, respond with curiosity instead of defensiveness, and be true to yourself.
Know what impact you want to have whether being an agent of happiness, ensuring your team leaves in a state of joy every day, honoring reality, and creating a generative culture.
Build a personal board of directors, people who will challenge you, inspire you, and tell you the hard truths.
Find your guiding principles to make decisions and know when it’s time to push out of your comfort zone.
Seek communities to learn from, contribute to, and expand your network. Ensure you also include communities or insights from different points of view to avoid finding yourself in an “echo chamber.”
Resources:
The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable - Succinct yet sympathetic, this guide will be a boon for those struggling with the inherent difficulties of leading a group.
Brene Brown - Boundaries and defining what is okay and not okay for you
The First 90 Days: Proven Strategies for Getting Up to Speed Faster and Smarter, Updated and Expanded - Michael D. Watkins offers proven strategies for conquering the challenges of transitions—no matter where you are in your career.
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Leadership Interview Series: Courtney Kissler, CTO & SVP of Technology