Small Actions Make Great Leaders

In the past, leadership has been taught as a set of larger actions, such as having a difficult conversation. One is doing many things at the same time in leading well. One way to learn to do this better is to think of leadership as a series of small actions that are practiced. A leader might try to disarm, show appreciation, and appeal to values instead of thinking of a difficult conversation. Learning to implement 25 actions identified in research can help you become a better leader.

Julie was working in a lab. Gordon was a well-regarded scientist but also very unpredictable. She walked into Gordon's office and asked for his feedback on the draft of the research paper they were co-authoring. The paper took a long time to complete. Gordon said it was the worst piece of garbage he had ever seen.