Fending Off the Bobbleheads

In Search of Ethical Leadership:

With Cheryl Paul, MEd

Director, Engineering Student Services

What does SEDUCTION of the LEADER mean?Why are LEADERS often not receiving honest/thoughtful feedback?

What is the IMPACT of a poor feedback loop?

What does Leadership Seduction look like?

• SYCOPHANTS (aka Bobbleheads)

• Via GREAT EXPECTATIONS…• Seduction by EGO

How Does Seduction of Leader Occur?Begins & Ends with Communications.

Origins of Disconnect…

• Competing Agendas• Gaps in Organizational

Capabilities• Impact of Leader’s Behavior

Want to have a REAL conversation?

1. Ask.

2. Listen.

3. Respond.

UNDERLYING DYNAMICSBe sure to not forget about…

Proven Strategies to Counter the Seduction of the Leader

• Use 360º feedback• Leadership Audit• Create Forums for

Dialogue• Hold one-on-one

touch point meetings

Invite Discomfort

Involve Others

Make Reflection a Habit

The toughest steps to take is to:

Closing Thoughts…Remember to carefully watch out for the sycophants!

Employ the Strategies to neutralize/overturn them…

Everyday Leadership is Reaching Out…Talking… Listening…& Taking Action.