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Remember that childhood game, “Heads Up, Seven Up” ... the one where you put your head down, thumb up, and waited to see if someone would tap you? Everything was calm and still… until it wasn’t. That is what this season can feel like for many professionals right now. It is not chaos, but it is change. May 2025 has arrived with a sense of transition in the air, not just for some companies but is being felt more globally. For some, it feels like the apple cart has been nudged, or the fruit basket quietly rearranged. You might have felt secure in your role, steady in your team, or clear in your trajectory and then something shifted. Whether through restructuring, acquisition, shifting priorities, increased demands, changing roles, or unexpected leadership changes, you may now find yourself suddenly needing to consider your next step.Whether unexpected or overdue, a job change can leave you disturbed, stressed, and unsettled. Below are four areas of questions that will help you regain focus, clarify your direction, and take strategic next steps. &nbsp;Maybe you are a student looking for summer work, someone laid off, someone in a bad work situation that needs to find a new job and exit, a company closed, a role eliminated... whatever it is, change happens. You will do better when you see this through the lens of prosperity and opportunity than sacristy and stain, but it can be challenging, and the struggle is real. It is frustrating to apply endlessly for jobs and not hear back. It is challenging to not find openings in your area of expertise. It is discouraging when it seems like “no one” is hiring. Having the right focus and mindset is essential. &nbsp;I often compare the job search process to the experience of dropping a contact lens on the floor. When you know exactly what you are looking for, you can focus your efforts and even enlist others to help: “I dropped my contact lens; can you help me find it?” Despite its small size and the challenge of spotting a clear item, everyone knows what they are searching for. In contrast, if you are unsure of what you are looking for and say, “I lost something,” it becomes nearly impossible to identify the object, even if it is right in front of you. This lack of clarity not only hampers your own search but also makes it difficult for others to assist you effectively.The same principle applies to job searching. Without a clear understanding of the role, industry, or company culture you are targeting, your search can become aimless. You might find yourself questioning each opportunity: “Is this the right fit? I am not sure.” This uncertainty can lead to prolonged job searches, during which financial pressures may mount, leading to feelings of desperation and scarcity. Such emotions can cloud judgment and result in accepting positions that are not aligned with your goals. Additionally, as the frustration and confusion grow, people naturally isolate themselves as they feel discouraged and their support system weakens in knowing how to help so move on to other things that have better clarity and definition. (Note: if are finding yourself at this stage now, the best thing you can do today is make this day one of your new approaches to your job search, starting with the following).Establishing clarity about what you are seeking in your next role is not just beneficial, it is essential. It enables you to direct your efforts efficiently, engage your network effectively, and approach your job search with confidence and purpose. To help you do this, here are a few reflective questions get grounded and move forward with clarity giving you a sharp focus, improved success, and results.Clarity Questions<ul><li>What did you love about your past work, that you would love to spend much of your time doing?</li><li>What are your strengths or skills you want to use in your next job?</li><li>What are 5-10 job titles you would love to have and why? (essentially the job you are looking for)&nbsp;</li><li>What interests you about these jobs and what are 5 companies that you would love to work for that hire these titles?</li><li>What job titles or types of work do you not want? Why?</li><li>What is your timeline for finding this job? (Note: the shorter the window to find it, it might need to be more of a “stop-gap” job on the way to your next “long term” if you have 6-12 months to find it, it is safer to look for your long term next.) &nbsp;</li></ul>Logistics &amp; Practical Questions<ul><li>What is your target salary or hourly rate?</li><li>When are you available to start?</li><li>Are you open to remote, hybrid, or on-site roles?</li><li>How far are you willing to commute?</li><li>What type of schedule works best for you (full-time, part-time, contract)?</li><li>Any other logistical needs (schedule, location, salary, etc.)? Which are non-negotiables versus having flexibility?</li></ul>Strategy &amp; Mindset<ul><li>Do you have a weekly or daily routine; what is it?</li><li>What are your processes for networking, applying, interviewing, and follow-up?&nbsp;</li><li>What is your “why” for finding a job?</li><li>What is your current state of mind, 0 (discouraged) to 10 (optimistic)?</li><li>How aggressive and focused are you in finding your next? 0 (waiting for it to find me; not a lot of time for this) to 10 (daily looking and applying)</li><li>What have you noticed about people who are in the jobs you want? What do you have that matches; where are the gaps that you need to fill?</li><li>What makes you a great person to hire? Would you were the hiring manager, would you hire yourself and why?</li><li>What is your brand and unique’s for why to hire you?</li><li>What do you want someone to say about you after a first interview?</li><li>How big is your networking to reach out to old and new contacts? What is your plan to leverage your network?</li><li>How many hours per week can you realistically commit to the search? (for any hunt, it is recommended to give at least 2-3 hours a week)</li><li>What will help you stay motivated if the process takes longer than expected?</li></ul>Support &amp; Tools<ul><li>What skills might you need to develop to make yourself more marketable?</li><li>What tools do you have in place and what do you need to develop?</li><li>Do you have a current resume? Has it been updated in the last 3 months to match the positions you are trying to find?</li><li>Is your LinkedIn profile current and aligned with your goals and your target job?</li><li>Do you have a personal-professional career presentation? (interview folder or website with your resume, personal profile, work samples, etc.)</li><li>How can your friends and family support your search?</li><li>Who can professionally support you in this search? (Mentor, coach, accountability partner?)</li><li>What are you using to track daily / weekly applications, responses, and follow-ups?</li></ul>If there are questions you don’t know the answer to, do not settle with “I don’t know.” Work to find the answer to all the above, as it is part of equipping yourself for a robust, healthy, and rich job search. Clarity and focus are your friends; ambiguity (in this situation) is a thief of your time and energy. Whatever feels “hard” is the “work” that is needed. Push through it. Get feedback. Make decisions. Do not sit and wait. Clarity comes with stepping forward. As you explore and try things you will find doors open and close. See the doors that close as what was not supposed to be. Notice the doors that are opening as opening for a reason to learn and explore. Be open. Be curious. Be positive. You are in the driver’s seat; you are not a victim to the hiring managers. You are interviewing and picking your next as much as they are picking you. Make yourself marketable and attractive by being innovative, progressive, and active. Notice where your skills are stale and refresh them. Do practice interviews with seasoned leader friends. Whatever you do, do something. It will happen, and it happens faster based on the amount of clarity you are advancing with and the activity you are taking. You can do it! If you feel discouraged, reach out to get some links for assessments to study what is right with you and use these things to help build your brand. There is always something to do. Whatever you do, do not just sit and wait.

From Disruption to Direction: 4 Key Question Areas to Set Yourself Up for Your Next Job

Multipliers explores how the best leaders make others around them smarter by amplifying their team’s capacity, intelligence, and performance. Liz Wiseman contrasts these leaders with “Diminishers”—well-intentioned or unaware leaders who unintentionally limit their team’s potential. Through five core disciplines, the book presents a playbook for empowering others and creating high-contribution cultures where everyone brings their best.<h3>💡 Key Concepts</h3><ul><li>Multiplier vs. Diminisher: Multipliers unlock capacity; Diminishers (often accidentally) suppress it.</li><li>Assumption Shift: Multipliers operate from the belief that people are smart and will figure it out.</li><li>Five Disciplines of Multipliers: &nbsp;Talent Magnet, &nbsp;Liberator, &nbsp;Challenger, Debate Maker, Investor</li><li>The Accidental Diminisher: Helpful, capable leaders can still reduce impact by overusing strengths (e.g., always rescuing, needing to be the smartest).</li><li>The Multiplier Effect: Leaders who multiply intelligence dramatically increase engagement and results without burnout.</li></ul><h3>📚 Chapter Breakdown</h3>Chapter 1: The Multiplier Effect This chapter sets the stage by defining the core concept: Multipliers amplify the intelligence of others while Diminishers—even unintentionally—shut it down. Wiseman outlines the mental model of both leadership styles and introduces research showing the impact of each on team performance. Multipliers extract full capability by believing in people’s smarts, while Diminishers hoard ideas and control execution. The key action is awareness—begin to observe which mindset you operate from.Chapter 2: Talent Magnet Multipliers attract and retain top talent because they recognize and cultivate each individual’s unique genius. They identify what people do well and give them roles that allow those talents to shine. Rather than micromanage, they create growth paths and learning loops. Actions here include looking for untapped potential in others, speaking to their strengths, and creating a stretch environment where talent can evolve.Chapter 3: The Liberator This chapter shows how Multipliers create environments that are both safe and intense. They set clear expectations and provide space for people to think, speak up, and contribute without fear. The balance is in demanding excellence without being oppressive. Leaders are encouraged to reduce anxiety while increasing accountability—cultivating a culture where people feel both safe and challenged.Chapter 4: The Challenger Challengers see what is possible and push others to think bigger. Rather than give people easy tasks, they present opportunities for stretch thinking and bold goals. They assume people are capable and set high bars. In practice, this looks like presenting problems instead of solutions, asking thought-provoking questions, and fostering resilience through challenge.Chapter 5: The Debate Maker Multipliers bring people into decision-making by framing debates around clear questions. They build rigorous thinking and group ownership by encouraging spirited discussions and collective insight. Instead of fast answers, they slow down to explore different angles. Leaders can apply this by practicing inquiry over advocacy and designing forums for team discussion.Chapter 6: The Investor Investors give others ownership while staying connected to outcomes. They define clear expectations, provide support, and then get out of the way. Rather than rescuing or hovering, they transfer responsibility and let people lead. To apply: set the vision, provide tools or resources, and hold steady accountability without micromanagement.Chapter 7: The Accidental Diminisher Many leaders who want to be helpful can actually diminish. This chapter explores common traps—rapid ideation, being overly optimistic, or always having the answer—that suppress team creativity and ownership. Self-reflection and feedback are critical here. Leaders must learn to pause, ask, and give space.Chapter 8: Dealing with Diminishers Not all leaders are Multipliers. This chapter provides strategies for surviving and thriving under Diminishers, such as setting boundaries, focusing on your influence zone, and multiplying from where you are. The tone shifts from managing others to managing your mindset and impact.Chapter 9: Becoming a Multiplier The closing chapter outlines practical steps to develop as a Multiplier. It begins with awareness, then moves into experimentation and habit building. Wiseman encourages leaders to start small—one conversation, one shift at a time—and to consistently invite contribution and stretch from their teams.<h3>🎯 Actions to Apply</h3><ul><li>Talent Spotting: Observe and call out the natural genius of each team member. Align projects to those strengths.</li><li>Environment Building: Foster a space where people feel safe to think, challenge, and grow—without rescuing or hovering.</li><li>Stretch Goals: Frame challenges that stretch people just beyond their comfort zone and trust they will rise.</li><li>Curated Debate: Replace decision-making by decree with open dialogue. Pose questions and let your team reason through.</li><li>Ownership Transfer: Set expectations clearly and back out. Let people lead, but circle back for accountability.</li><li>Self-Awareness: Reflect on when you might accidentally diminish. Pause. Ask. Let others shine.</li><li>Lead Through Others: Make leadership not about your genius, but your ability to multiply the genius of others.</li></ul><h3>🧠 Key Quotes</h3><ul><li>“The best leaders make everyone around them smarter.”</li><li>“People’s best thinking must be given, not taken.”</li><li>“Multipliers don’t get more with less. They get more by using more—more of people’s capability.”</li><li>“When leaders become genius makers, they amplify the intelligence of the team.”</li><li>“Diminishers drain intelligence and energy. Multipliers unleash it.” </li></ul>This book is a challenge and an invitation—to lead not with answers, but with questions. Not to be the center of intelligence, but the catalyst of collective insight. Every leader can amplify or reduce the potential of their team, and the impact of this choice is exponential.If you are building a team, scaling a department, mentoring others, or managing your own influence—Multipliers provides a field guide to unlock greater contribution without burning out your team or yourself. Reflect on which habits need rewiring, and where you can shift from doing to multiplying.Book Overview Provided By: Christy Geiger, Leadership &amp; Executive Coach with Synergy Strategies For more on this book or other leadership tools, visit: www.synergystrategies.com

Book Overview: Multipliers by Liz Wiseman

Cameron Hanes' Undeniable is a story of unrelenting perseverance, personal discipline, and deep passion. Blending memoir with mindset, Hanes recounts his rise from an average upbringing to becoming one of the most elite endurance athletes and bowhunters in the world. His philosophy is simple but powerful: success does not come from talent, but from the decision to outwork everyone else. This book challenges readers to live with purpose, push past comfort, and become undeniable in their own pursuit of greatness.Key Concepts<ul><li>Success is built on daily, disciplined action, not talent or privilege.</li><li>Purpose and obsession are necessary for growth and mastery.</li><li>Physical endurance strengthens mental toughness and character.</li><li>Tragedy and challenge can shape personal greatness when used as fuel.</li><li>Becoming undeniable means being so consistent and committed that no one can overlook you.</li></ul>Chapter BreakdownChapter 1: Average Beginnings Hanes opens with his early years of insecurity, mediocrity, and personal confusion. He had no clear path or mentorship, but he was hungry for something more. Leaders can learn that background does not define potential. The first step to leadership is ownership of your own development. Action: Reflect on your story and where you have been playing small or waiting for validation.Chapter 2: Finding the Mountain This chapter explores Hanes'discovery of bowhunting and how it gave him a mission. The mountain becomes a metaphor for growth, grit, and purpose. For leaders, this reinforces the power of finding your "why." Action: Clarify your personal mission. What drives you when things get hard?Chapter 3: Training Obsession Hanes discusses the daily, unglamorous work behind mastery. His training becomes a lifestyle, not a program. Leaders will see how obsession, when aligned with purpose, is a powerful force. Action: Design your non-negotiable daily disciplines that align with your long-term goals.Chapter 4: The Power of Reps Repetition, not intensity, is what creates transformation. Hanes shares how doing hard things daily builds self-respect and internal strength. For leaders, this is a reminder that consistency wins. Action; Choose one leadership skill (listening, vision casting, delegation) and commit to practicing it intentionally each day.Chapter 5: Discipline is Love This chapter reframes discipline as a form of self-respect and love for others. Hanes argues that being your best is how you serve your family and community. Leaders should ask: how does my personal discipline impact those I lead? Action: Audit your self-leadership and identify where you're out of alignment with your values.Chapter 6: Bowhunting as Art Bowhunting is presented not just as a skill but as an art and a spiritual discipline. Hanes highlights presence, patience, and reverence. Leaders can draw from this the power of slowing down, being present, and refining their craft. Action: Identify one area of your leadership that needs more depth, not speed.Chapter 7: Mental Toughness and Tragedy Hanes opens up about loss and adversity, and how it shaped his resilience. Rather than using pain as an excuse, he used it as a tool. Leaders are reminded that emotional pain can be a source of strength if processed intentionally. Action: Write down one struggle that has made you stronger and how it informs your leadership.Chapter 8: Becoming Undeniable This chapter brings it all together. To become undeniable means to live with such focus, consistency, and commitment that your results speak for themselves. Hanes challenges readers to step fully into their potential. Action: Define what 'undeniable' means in your leadership role and write your own version of a personal performance standard.Actions to Apply<ul><li>Create a daily discipline plan that aligns with your leadership goals.</li><li>Define your mission statement and revisit it weekly.</li><li>Practice presence in high-stress moments to model calm leadership.</li><li>Use physical training to build mental clarity and toughness.</li><li>Audit where you are playing small and choose one area to stretch.</li><li>Share your story of growth with someone to inspire and lead from vulnerability.</li></ul>Key Quotes<ul><li>"Nobody cares. Work harder."</li><li>"Average is easy. Discipline is rare."</li><li>"You don’t need permission to be great. You need to decide."</li><li>"Pain is the price of becoming someone new."</li><li>"Do something hard every day."</li></ul>This book matters for leaders because it reframes growth as a choice, not a gift. Hanes’ journey reminds readers that excellence is not a result of ease, but of repetition, resilience, and relentless standards. Leaders who want to elevate their own performance, build mental toughness, and lead with authentic intensity will find this book highly relevant. For those developing others, Undeniable is a call to challenge mediocrity and champion discipline.Leadership Application Choose one personal or professional area where you feel average or inconsistent. Write a 30-day plan of daily actions you will take to become "undeniable" in that area. Post the plan somewhere visible and track your consistency each day. Share your goal with someone who will support your growth.Book Overview Provided By: Christy Geiger, Leadership &amp; Executive Coach with Synergy Strategies For more on this book, other leadership resources, or to apply these insights, visit: www.synergystrategies.com

Book Overview: Undeniable by Cameron Hanes (2022)

<h3>Impactful Leaders are...</h3><ol><li>Accountable. Leaders are not victims or blamers. Leaders do not make excuses. They look at what they can do and get it done. They are not perfect and focus on failing forward, not spinning in indecision, perfection, or trying to get ahead. They drive forward because they are constantly building. Rather than feeling down, bad, or guilty, they look at what they can do about it and make things happen.</li><li>Selfless. Leaders have a heart for others along with their goals, but first for others. Leaders are their best when they lead by supporting others to be successful. One win = team win. Do not do things for personal recognition. There is no “I” in team.</li><li>Prepared. Leaders know and work well ahead of deadlines. They are constantly aware of the goal, timeline, and what it takes. They are chipping away, so they are ready before the deadline. They have margin and space for going above and beyond with excellence. Not scraping by on the edge or late. Excellence, not perfectionism.</li><li>Driven and Communicate. Leaders are decisive, directive, and determined because they know what they want, and they make it happen. Not only for themselves but for the world around them. Rising tides raise all, the leader and everyone with them. They do not avoid conflict but gently and patiently navigate through it. They are clear on their mission, vision, and goals and seek to understand others, finding the common win-win. They over-communicate so there is no misunderstanding, confusion, or ambiguity, so any person on the team can share the mission. Clarity is king.</li><li>Disciplined. Leaders are disciplined and act. Always working with a plan because they know what they want, how it will make things better for others, and themselves. They have a path and plan to make it all come together.</li><li>Humble. Leaders are humble and passionate. They are willing to do what it takes and do hard work to get results, rather than feeling entitled to good results without hard work. They ask, "Why does this matter for others and how will it benefit or support them?" They care about people and contribution. Leaders care because they believe people matter, and they want people to know and feel they matter and are willing to work hard for what is right, helps, and makes a positive impact.</li><li>Prosperity-minded. Leaders know there is enough for everyone and know they make the bed they lie in. If they want it, they make it happen by investing over time, not just at the last minute. They are not victim-minded and do not wait for it to be handed or given to them because that is not how it works. God is faithful and blesses, but He wants you to be a wise steward of your gifts and talents and to use them. He blesses what you are doing, not just because you are waiting for a blessing.</li><li>Curious &amp; Adaptable. Leaders are learners. They read books, watch videos, and look to be mentored by those they aspire to be like and ask questions of them. They realize there is always more to learn and seek to NOT be the smartest person in the room. They can admit when they are wrong and love learning and expanding their thoughts, awareness, and ideas. They can adjust and flex with changing winds and situations, rather than being attached to being right or having it their way. They are nimble and agile and find flexibility through constant study, learning, and innovation.</li><li>Self-Aware &amp; Authentic. Leaders know themselves, their strengths, and their weaknesses. Know your strengths and lean into them. Develop the skills you need and accept the ones you do not have. If you do not have it, develop it, or find a partner to support you. Decide how you want to show up in the world. Leadership is not a given. Do you really want to be a leader? If so, be willing to do the hard work to be excellent. If you choose to be a team leader, contributor, or follower, own your lane and be amazing at it. Leadership is not easy, but it is rewarding. &nbsp;If you are going to embark on the challenge, be willing to do what it takes to be GREAT. Leverage your natural skills, expand self-awareness, and grow through blind spots.</li><li>Growth-minded &amp; Resilient. Leaders are always looking to improve. They ask, “How can I be better? What can I learn from that? What will I do differently next time? What is next?” &nbsp;We reap what we sow. When we have a failure or results that we don't like, we reflect on what happened that did not provide the hoped-for results. &nbsp;Be resilient, life is a journey, not a destination. Resilience is not bouncing back when down, it is having building capacity to stay steady and sustain when pressure rises, giving you bend so you do not break, and reserves, so you can rise up.</li></ol>Do not be ego-driven, entitled, deserving, squishy, indecisive, a victim, spinning, or hopeless. Do not pride yourself on status or ego.<ul><li style="list-style-type: none;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: none;"><ul><li style="list-style-type: none;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: none;"><ul style="list-style-type: square;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: square;"><li style="">You matter. You are brilliant and talented. You got this.</li><li style="">Achievement takes work and it is WORTH it &nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li style="">Have fun. Give yourself grace. Enjoy the process. Find balance.</li></ul></li></ul></li></ul><ul style="list-style-type: circle;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: circle;"><li>Know what you want. &nbsp;</li><li>Have a plan to get there. Prioritize. &nbsp;</li><li>Eat the frog. &nbsp;</li><li>Do hard things. &nbsp;</li><li>Spend time on things that matter. Do not waste time on busy work that sucks your time. &nbsp;</li><li>Rise and repeat. &nbsp;</li></ul>

10 Unfiltered Thoughts About Impactful Leaders

<h2>Understanding the Dynamics of Modern Leadership</h2>The landscape of leadership is continuously evolving, driven by rapid technological advancements and changing workplace dynamics. As businesses strive to remain competitive, understanding the latest leadership trends is crucial. Leaders today must adapt to these changes to effectively guide their teams and organizations to success.Adapting to new leadership trends not only enhances a leader's effectiveness but also ensures that their organization stays ahead in a competitive market. From leveraging technology to embracing diversity, the following trends are reshaping the way leaders operate.<figure id="figure-b7eixjcum6m8ru6isy"><img id="b7eixjcum6m8ru6isy" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2157709105/photo/data-fabric-ai-artificial-intelligence-powered-analytics-data-data-verse-big-data-data.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=gYImeeQslIntNzWrO8iIyRALiovJOudFMtQ4GEeUQm8=" alt="modern leadership" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2157709105/photo/data-fabric-ai-artificial-intelligence-powered-analytics-data-data-verse-big-data-data.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=gYImeeQslIntNzWrO8iIyRALiovJOudFMtQ4GEeUQm8=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>Trend 1: Embracing Digital Transformation</h2>In today's digital age, leaders must be at the forefront of technological advancements. Digital transformation is no longer an option but a necessity for staying relevant. Leaders who embrace technology can streamline operations, enhance communication, and foster innovation within their teams.Whether it's adopting new software tools or integrating AI into business processes, embracing digital transformation can significantly improve productivity and efficiency. Leaders need to invest in continuous learning to keep up with technological changes and inspire their teams to do the same.<h2>Trend 2: Prioritizing Emotional Intelligence</h2>Emotional intelligence (EI) has become a cornerstone of effective leadership. Leaders with high EI can better understand and manage their own emotions, as well as empathize with their team members. This fosters a positive work environment, leading to improved team collaboration and reduced turnover.Developing emotional intelligence enables leaders to handle conflicts more effectively and build stronger relationships with their teams. As workplaces become more diverse, EI is essential for navigating cultural differences and facilitating inclusive work environments.<figure id="figure-u9nu6fptbm8ru6isy"><img id="u9nu6fptbm8ru6isy" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2180768049/photo/emotional-intelligence-concept.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=cNmbEwjfPQP86SRc05mFr4R0cUPFoz8KtqGDCMQoSNY=" alt="emotional intelligence" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2180768049/photo/emotional-intelligence-concept.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=cNmbEwjfPQP86SRc05mFr4R0cUPFoz8KtqGDCMQoSNY=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>Trend 3: Fostering a Culture of Innovation</h2>Innovation is key to staying competitive in any industry. Leaders who cultivate a culture of innovation encourage their teams to think creatively and experiment without fear of failure. This approach not only drives growth but also keeps the organization adaptable in the face of change.By providing resources and support for innovation, leaders can empower their teams to develop groundbreaking ideas and solutions. Encouraging open communication and collaboration across departments can further enhance the organization's innovative capabilities.<h2>Trend 4: Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion</h2>Diversity and inclusion (D&amp;I) have moved to the forefront of leadership priorities. A diverse workforce brings a variety of perspectives and ideas, fostering creativity and driving better business outcomes. Leaders who embrace D&amp;I create an environment where all team members feel valued and included.Implementing effective D&amp;I strategies involves setting measurable goals, providing training, and ensuring that diversity is reflected at all organizational levels. Leaders must also be proactive in addressing biases and promoting equal opportunities for all employees.<figure id="figure-7vgl95eivm8ru6isy"><img id="7vgl95eivm8ru6isy" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/648817898/photo/life-is-amazing-when-you-have-the-greatest-friends-around.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=hiZYuuiIuoQAC4jr3rzTAH1SImziPqxRsgqlqQMreRc=" alt="diversity inclusion" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/648817898/photo/life-is-amazing-when-you-have-the-greatest-friends-around.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=hiZYuuiIuoQAC4jr3rzTAH1SImziPqxRsgqlqQMreRc=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>Trend 5: Leading with Purpose</h2>Today's workforce is increasingly motivated by purpose-driven work. Leaders who can articulate a compelling vision and align their organization's goals with broader societal values are more likely to attract and retain top talent. Purpose-driven leadership helps create a sense of meaning and fulfillment in employees' work.By focusing on social responsibility and sustainability, leaders can inspire their teams to contribute positively to the community while achieving business success. This alignment between purpose and profit is becoming a critical factor in long-term organizational growth.In conclusion, staying ahead in a competitive market requires leaders to adapt to emerging trends that redefine how they engage with their teams and drive their organizations forward. By embracing these leadership trends, leaders can position their organizations for sustained success in an ever-changing business landscape. Christy Geiger, MCC, MA Advancing Leaders from the Inside Out SynergyStrategies.com

Top 5 Leadership Trends: Staying Ahead in a Competitive Market

<h3>The Evolving Landscape of Leadership Coaching</h3>As we move into 2025, leadership coaching continues to evolve in response to complex business challenges, changing team dynamics, and the growing demand for human-centered leadership. Coaching is no longer just a developmental tool for high-performers. It has become a strategic leadership lever, equipping executives to think clearly, lead intentionally, and develop others effectively.These trends reflect not only how leaders are being coached, but how they can coach their people. Whether through formal coaching conversations or everyday leadership interactions, these five insights offer practical ways to elevate leadership capacity across the organization.<figure id="figure-ietwa2sj0om8nleygk"><img id="ietwa2sj0om8nleygk" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/28unbKm3jKQZVxMIGjpI5VvhT17dPeOGiO2g8055FuIR2tzOyb6ONJ3IRqlcP5eu.jpeg" alt="leadership coaching" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/28unbKm3jKQZVxMIGjpI5VvhT17dPeOGiO2g8055FuIR2tzOyb6ONJ3IRqlcP5eu.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Key #1: Coaching Is Personalized and Data-Driven </h3>Data-driven coaching is becoming increasingly important as organizations look to connect leadership development with real, measurable outcomes. Coaching has evolved from an original tool to fix gaps or correct performance issues into a growth strategy for high performers, increasing reflection and self-awareness while helping leaders gain clarity about who they are and how they show up. Today, coaching builds on those foundations and expands its focus to be a catalyst for movement and insight, supporting leaders as they grow from where they are to where they want to be.Additionally, data-driven tools and approaches are helping accelerate that movement by bringing insight into what is working, what is not, and what needs to shift to drive meaningful progress. Leaders are looking for development that delivers results through a focused discipline using performance trends, behavioral patterns, and business data to create clarity and direction.Coaching often begins with foundational tools such as assessments and 360 feedback. These provide valuable insight into a leader’s style, reputation, and strengths. From there, coaching is expanding to explore new ways to measure behavioral patterns, leadership effectiveness, and team impact. This includes identifying relevant performance metrics and creating simple ways to track growth over time.This trend goes hand in hand with the need for personalized development. Leaders benefit most when coaching is tailored to their unique goals, strengths, and context. When data and personalization come together, coaching becomes both relevant and transformative. It allows leaders to track growth, adjust in real time, and lead others with greater focus and intention.<h3>Key #2: Emotional Intelligence is Essential&nbsp;</h3>In 2025, emotional intelligence is taking center stage in leadership coaching. As businesses become more people-centric and team dynamics more complex, the ability to understand and manage emotions is essential for effective leadership. Coaches are helping executives grow their capacity to lead with self-awareness, empathy, and emotional presence.Emotional intelligence coaching often includes reflection practices, interpersonal feedback, and techniques to enhance relational communication. These skills help leaders recognize how their emotions influence others, respond constructively under pressure, and create a grounded presence for their teams.This focus is not just personal. It directly impacts team performance and organizational culture. Leaders who demonstrate emotional intelligence are better equipped to hold space for others, model calm in high-stress environments, and build trust through clear and compassionate communication. High-performing teams often reflect the emotional maturity of the leader. As executives strengthen their emotional intelligence, they elevate the culture around them.<figure id="figure-a8l9unijvm8nlf5hj"><img id="a8l9unijvm8nlf5hj" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/31hhgpQkPN9Wr2mwjs3XsBmKOoY1qTruk7ItEVXAjIQJfai408ljUn1dlBVi1Kv1.jpeg" alt="emotional intelligence" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/31hhgpQkPN9Wr2mwjs3XsBmKOoY1qTruk7ItEVXAjIQJfai408ljUn1dlBVi1Kv1.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Key #3: Value Human-Centered Co-Design&nbsp;</h3>Coaching today models and encourages leaders to co-design conversations, needs, and agreements. It is about a human-centric approach that sees the person as a human being before a human doing. In being people first, it approaches work with a lens that creates with people rather than leading through command and control. This reflects a deeper shift in workplace culture where inclusion, engagement, and shared ownership are key to long-term success. It requires understanding and patience while holding standards, excellence, and driving results.When executives see people as humans and engage through collaboration by involving their people in goal-setting, decision-making, and problem-solving, engagement and results increase. Co-design builds alignment and accountability while also reinforcing the belief that every voice matters. Leaders who embrace this approach create environments where innovation and ownership thrive.<h3>Key #4: Sustainable Systems Require Adaptive Leadership&nbsp;</h3>As the speed of work continues to increase at a lightning rate, the demand for strong processes and systems is also rising. Clear systems allow people to move faster and build on a solid foundation rather than starting from scratch and spending precious time recreating. Without systems, speed can quickly lead to inefficiency and burnout. As a result, the conversation around sustainability is expanding to include not just wellness, but workflow.Leaders are under pressure to get more done in less time without burning themselves or their teams out. At the same time, organizations need to build scalable systems that support consistent execution while continuing to grow and adapt. This requires a fragile balance between structure and flexibility. Leaders must strengthen their capacity to create systems that sustain and scale, while also expanding their agility to stay responsive in an ever-changing environment.Coaching is helping leaders assess and continually monitor what to standardize and where to remain flexible. It supports leaders in building infrastructure for clarity and consistency, while staying aligned with shifting needs, changing priorities, and new opportunities. This mindset is not only practiced by the leader, but taught and modeled throughout the team.<figure id="figure-5gdev1n1zgm8nlfbjv"><img id="5gdev1n1zgm8nlfbjv" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/39x3Lq2EBicOMzki6uogEhKSNhs2CAYxASqhofT7F9IZYT8lHUFKoHTMRS3PhtY8.jpeg" alt="sustainability leadership" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/39x3Lq2EBicOMzki6uogEhKSNhs2CAYxASqhofT7F9IZYT8lHUFKoHTMRS3PhtY8.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Key #5: Peer Coaching and Collective Insight Strengthens Growth</h3>Peer coaching is gaining traction as a powerful tool for leadership development. By engaging in peer-to-peer learning, executives gain diverse insights and perspectives that enrich their understanding of leadership challenges. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of community, accountability, and shared responsibility among leaders.Peer coaching sessions often involve group discussions, feedback exchanges, and real-time reflection on leadership experiences. These conversations deepen trust, encourage continuous learning, and create shared momentum. Coaching is no longer just an individual practice. It is becoming a collective leadership habit that strengthens teams from the inside out.Leaders are integrating peer learning into their organizations through roundtables, cross-functional coaching groups, and structured reflection during team or leadership meetings. These spaces give leaders the opportunity to coach and be coached, building both capability and connection.To begin, leaders can invite a few trusted peers or reports into regular conversations focused on growth and reflection. These simple interactions help normalize coaching behaviors across the organization and reinforce a culture where learning, support, and development are part of everyday leadership.<h3>So what; Now what?&nbsp;</h3>These trends are more than coaching techniques. They are a roadmap for how leaders can develop themselves and their teams in a way that is meaningful, sustainable, and effective. Coaching is not just what leaders receive. It is how they think, relate, and grow their people.As we move into a new year, leaders who embrace these insights will not only navigate change more effectively. They will build teams and cultures that are equipped to grow, adapt, and thrive.What stands out to you the most? Which key feels most relevant or timely for your leadership? What would support you and your team most right now?<figure id="figure-amms9ajqntm8nstwhs" class=""><img id="amms9ajqntm8nstwhs" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/646805636/photo/quality-customer-service-is-a-team-effort.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=Dp1NLaxplpGHPuubwg0qbYAEMt8p5NKjA-WsP4iutSk=" alt="Quality customer service is a team effort" title="Quality customer service is a team effort" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/646805636/photo/quality-customer-service-is-a-team-effort.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=Dp1NLaxplpGHPuubwg0qbYAEMt8p5NKjA-WsP4iutSk=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure><h3>Quick Review: 5 Leadership Coaching Trends for 2025</h3>1. Personalized and Data-Driven: Coaching blends individual growth with measurable results for focused development. 2. Emotional Intelligence is Essential: Leaders are building self-awareness, empathy, and relational strength. 3. Human-Centered Co-Design: Collaboration replaces command-and-control as leaders co-create with their teams. 4. Sustainable and Adaptive Systems: Strong leadership balances structure with flexibility to stay effective and responsive. 5. Peer Coaching Builds Capacity: Shared learning and feedback create cultures of trust, growth, and collective insight.Leadership coaching is no longer a side tool. It is a central part of how leaders grow, think, and lead others well. These five trends offer both insight and invitation.&nbsp;What is one conversation, habit, or mindset you could shift to reflect the leader you are becoming? Christy Geiger, MCC, MA Advancing Leaders from the Inside Out SynergyStrategies.com

Leadership Coaching Trends for 2025: 5 Key Insights for Executives

Synergy Strategies

Synergy Strategies is a leadership and executive coaching firm providing professional development for executives, leadership teams, managers, and organizations. Led by Christy Geiger, MCC, the firm offers one-on-one coaching globally and utilizes tools such as IMX DISC, Gallup StrengthsFinder, and EQ-i 2.0 emotional intelligence assessments. Coaching supports leaders in gaining clarity, building focus, and creating a strategic plan for growth. Areas of focus include emotional intelligence, strategic thinking, team alignment, communication, and sustainable performance.



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