Even the most experienced executives can face unexpected challenges when stepping into a new leadership role. Leadership isn’t always easy – it takes courage to embrace continuous growth and increasing responsibility. Fortunately, the leaders we work with are committed to self-reflection, open to feedback, and willing to evolve.

When Experience Isn’t Enough

Recently, a client asked me to work with an executive—let’s call her Susan—who was having a difficult time integrating into her new workplace. Despite her impressive background and past success, she was struggling to connect with the existing leadership team.

To better understand the dynamic, I spoke with several of her colleagues. Their feedback was consistent: Susan came across as someone who “knew better than others” and believed her way was the only way. She often dominated conversations, shared her views without seeking input, and seemed unreceptive to alternative perspectives.

When I met with Susan, she quickly acknowledged that things had gone off-track early in her transition. As the only woman on the executive team, she felt pressure to prove herself. In those first meetings, she worked hard to share her ideas and demonstrate her value. But her efforts to assert herself ended up creating distance between her and her colleagues.

Susan came to realize she had been operating from a story she carried with her—based on previous experiences—assuming that her male colleagues wouldn’t respect her or take her seriously. That belief shaped her behavior and unintentionally pushed people away.

Changing the Narrative 

So, what needed to shift for Susan to create real connection?

The first step was to let go of the old narrative. Susan saw that her need to prove herself was rooted in past experiences and assumptions—not in the reality of her current team. That mindset had pulled her focus inward, away from what mattered most: understanding and aligning with the people around her.

Trying to prove ourselves pulls us out of the moment and into a personal struggle for validation. What’s more powerful is being fully present, listening, and allowing our talents to speak through our actions—not our defenses.

Instead of striving to be heard, Susan needed to focus on truly hearing others. By learning what mattered to her colleagues and how they defined success, she could build the mutual trust and alignment that effective leadership requires.

Leading as an Explorer

I encouraged Susan to shift into what I call an “explorer” mindset. Rather than entering meetings to assert her position, she would enter to discover—curious about what others thought, committed to learning, and looking for shared goals.

This mindset became a leadership practice, rooted in five key behaviors:

• Entering conversations with an explorer mindset – staying open and curious rather than defensive or directive.
• Asking questions before offering opinions – listening first to understand how others see the issue.
• Listening for shared goals and commitments – identifying common ground and aligning her contributions.
• Showing authentic curiosity about others’ perspectives – not just waiting for her turn to speak, but truly seeking to understand.
• Inviting feedback on her ideas – creating a two-way dialogue and building trust through collaboration.

These weren’t dramatic changes—but they were powerful. The shift helped Susan forge genuine connections, reframe her relationships, and contribute more meaningfully to her team.

From Proving to Presence

I often remind leaders that the need to prove ourselves is natural—but when left unchecked, it can isolate us from the very people we’re trying to influence. Letting go of that need opens the door to authentic leadership: the kind grounded in trust, curiosity, and connection.

If you recognize a bit of Susan’s story in your own journey, know that you’re not alone—and that change is possible. With the right support and perspective, even subtle shifts in how you lead can create lasting impact.  

At Leader’s Team, we help leaders make those shifts every day. If you’re ready to transform your leadership mindset, book a call with us to explore how we can work together

THE PATH TO LEADERSHIP AWAITS. ARE YOU READY TO TAKE THE FIRST STEP?

At Leaders Team, we blend our disruptive expertise and mentoring to transform challenges into victories, paving the way for groundbreaking success. Our history of reinventing businesses across North America and Europe, including partnerships with organizations like Canada Brokerlink, Whirlpool, U.S. Air Force, and Hallmark Luxury Care Homes showcases our commitment to meeting and exceeding expectations.

Dive into a world where limitations are dismantled, and breakthrough results await. Whether you’re seeking to reshape your company’s culture, empower your team, or achieve unprecedented business outcomes, we’re here to guide you through every step.

Connect with us for a journey of transformation and empowerment. Reach out at general@leadersteam.com or schedule your complimentary consultation here. Together, let’s create a lasting impact and steer your organization towards a future filled with success and fulfillment. Visit our website to learn more about our services.