Why are some bosses infuriating (and others inspiring)?
Jan 7, 2025
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Adam Galinsky, a Columbia Business School professor and author of "Inspire," dives into the intricacies of leadership. He discusses the 'leadership amplification effect' where even small comments can drastically impact morale. Galinsky explains how clear communication and thoughtful praise can inspire rather than infuriate. He also emphasizes the importance of reflection for leaders and shares negotiation strategies that foster trust. Tune in for insights on transforming common boss behaviors that drive employees crazy into practices that inspire!
The leadership amplification effect shows that leaders’ casual remarks significantly impact their team’s morale and perceptions, necessitating mindful communication.
Effective mentorship, characterized by curiosity and a willingness to learn, fosters empathy and empowers team members, enhancing overall leadership quality.
Deep dives
The Leader Amplification Effect
The concept of the leader amplification effect illustrates how leaders' comments and behaviors are magnified in the eyes of their followers. A casual remark from a leader can either be perceived as harsh criticism or as impactful praise, depending on the context. Leaders often do not realize the significant influence their incidental actions and words have on their team members. This effect emphasizes the need for leaders to be mindful of their communication and the potential impact it may have on the morale and perception of their employees.
Transforming Infuriating to Inspiring Leadership
Leadership can be viewed as a continuum ranging from inspiring to infuriating, where behaviors directly affect how leaders are perceived. Inspiring leaders typically demonstrate courage, share credit, and embody desired behaviors, whereas infuriating leaders often exhibit cowardice and fail to acknowledge their team's contributions. Noticeably, these qualities can be developed and learned over time, suggesting that even those viewed as ineffective leaders have the potential to improve. This transformation requires reflection on one's leadership style and a commitment to fostering more encouraging interactions with others.
The Role of Mentorship and Learning
Mentorship is a critical component of effective leadership, often characterized by a mentor's curiosity and willingness to learn from others, regardless of their position. Research shows that mentors who focus on learning from their mentees foster closer engagement and are viewed as more empathetic. By breaking down hierarchical barriers and seeking insights from those below them, leaders can enhance their mentorship abilities. This approach not only empowers team members but also enriches the mentor's understanding and capability, leading to a more connected and inspiring leadership dynamic.
When you’re a leader, colleagues look for hidden meanings in everything you do. That can make gentle suggestions sound infuriating – and amplify the effect of even off-hand compliments. So how can a leader make sure their words and actions are understood as intended? To find out, Isabel Berwick speaks to Adam Galinsky, a professor at Columbia Business School, and author of the forthcoming book ‘Inspire: The Universal Path for Leading Yourself and Others.’ Adam has asked tens of thousands of people about what makes a leader inspiring or infuriating. In this episode, he explains the perils of the ‘leadership amplification effect,’, how to praise colleagues judiciously, and why you should never tell someone to ‘drop by your office’.
Presented by Isabel Berwick, produced by Mischa Frankl-Duval, mixed by Simon Panayi. The executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s head of audio.