The Line Between Flexibility and Privilege

In leading their teams and organizations through a crisis, women have repeatedly stepped up to the plate. How have they done it? By flexing the leadership capabilities that set them apart, such as taking initiative and communicating powerfully.

We asked our listeners to tell us about bosses whose management approach they admire and whose values and skills have had a positive impact on them personally. Here we’re celebrating and learning from four of these women: the managing partner at a law firm, the chief technology officer at a community college, the head of HR at an employee recognition company, and the CEO of a bank. Then, leadership coach Muriel Wilkins shares advice on how to take care of yourself while taking care of the people you manage.

Guest expert:

Muriel Wilkins is the co-founder of the executive coaching and leadership development firm Paravis Partners. She hosts the HBR Presents podcast Coaching Real Leaders. 

Resources:

• “Research: Women Score Higher Than Men in Most Leadership Skills,” by Jack Zenger and Joseph Folkman
• “Research: Women Are Better Leaders During a Crisis,” by Jack Zenger and Joseph Folkman
• “Research: Women Took on Even More Invisible Work During the Pandemic,” by Marianne Cooper