Brolin: The W.I.N. Formula for Leadership | The Disruptors

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The Disruptors

With Liz Farr

After 26 years in accounting, multiple gigs emceeing accounting conferences, and coaching a college softball team, Dawn Brolin knows a thing or two about leadership. “Empathy is, to me, the number one characteristic that a leader should follow,” she told Liz Farr in her second appearance on The Disruptors.  

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In her new book, "The Elevation of Empathy: Leading for the W.I.N.," Brolin delves into empathy as a key superpower for accountants. 

However, many accounting firms have prized other qualities, resulting in what Brolin calls “appointed leaders” versus true leaders. “You could be appointed a leader because of a skill or the amount of revenue you bring in. That doesn’t mean you are one,” she explains. The distinction is crucial – being placed in a leadership position doesn't automatically confer the emotional intelligence and people skills necessary to guide others effectively.