Tone from the Top

I have been thinking about leadership strengths (like say Gallup Strengths) in the context of how to drive tone from the top (a concept we use in understanding an organisation's risk culture). It made me reflect on whether a person's leadership or workplace strengths could be confused for personal risk appetite.

I have seen leaders' risk appetite misjudged before based on their style and so thought I would throw a few examples out into the LI wilderness and see what you guys think:

🔍 Analytical Strength vs. Conservatism

Analytical Light Side: Data-driven, thorough, logical.
Shadow Side: Seen as overly cautious.
Example: Requesting a feasibility study before a new product launch can be seen as conservative, but to them it’s about making informed decisions.

🛡️ Deliberative Strength vs. Risk Aversion

Deliberative Light Side: Careful, vigilant, strategic.
Shadow Side: Perceived as hesitant.
Example: Asking “what if” questions in a new project to foresee obstacles can be seen as avoiding risk, but to them it’s strategic planning.

⚖️ Consistency Strength vs. Resistance to Change

Consistency Light Side: Fair, stable, predictable.
Shadow Side: Viewed as inflexible.
Example: Upholding current processes in a changing market might seem like resistance to change, but to them it’s about maintaining stability.

🕊️ Harmony Strength vs. Avoidance of Conflict

Harmony Light Side: Collaborative, peaceful, consensus-driven.
Shadow Side: Seen as conflict-averse.
Example: Advocating for compromise during a strategic debate may appear indecisive, but to them it’s about team cohesion.

I think there are some things those in leadership positions can do to unpack this in real life, such as:
👁️‍🗨️ Self-Reflect: Understand the light and shadow sides of your strengths.
👁️‍🗨️ Seek Feedback: Get insights from colleagues on how your strengths are perceived.
👁️‍🗨️ Communicate: Articulate how you are leaning on your strengths / work style to help others understand how you are thinking, maybe they are seeing your shadow and misunderstanding the landscape.

I'd be keen to hear from others where they have seen this in action (for better or for worse) and what you learned from it?

#RiskManagement #Leadership #StrengthsFinder #PersonalGrowth

August Advisory