What makes a good leader?
December 11th , 2023
I’ve often thought of writing a blog on this topic. But I was never sure just how to approach it.
Who am I to tell people what makes a good leader? Am I qualified to give an opinion on the subject? I didn’t think I was.
But I’ve changed my mind. I recently went to a drinks party and was asked to say a few words to celebrate one of my good friends – who was also an old boss. I started to think about this topic a little more. I thought about why he inspired me, why he drove me to step outside my comfort zone, and what I learned working with him. I also reached out to many of my former colleagues to get their input.
It was an interesting task. I spoke to friends I hadn’t spoken to in years. We lamented about ‘the good old days’ in television news. And we spoke about his leadership style. I was overwhelmed with what people told me and I thought it was worth sharing.
Good leadership is a person who works alongside you. A person who trusts you and pushes you to try new things and take a leap. A leap that may scare you, but ultimately helps you grow.
I believe his superpower is his ability to ask questions. He knew he didn’t know everything, and he wasn’t afraid to ask for help. I was always confident that when he asked my opinion, he was really listening and taking it on board. That’s a unique quality to have.
Other colleagues called him loyal, supportive and honest. Some said he was inspiring, funny and generous. The common theme was that he was someone you could trust, look up to and learn from. One of my favourite compliments was from a former colleague who said he had so much respect for him that ‘he was worth preparing for.’ Someone else said ‘he made me believe I could do more.’
Today, I work with a lot of leaders and C-suite executives who are at the helm of various businesses. We interview them, interview their teams, and help tell their stories. I love my job because I am given a unique chance to see into so many amazing businesses. Through that, I’m able to gain insight into various leadership styles that not many people get to see.
It’s no surprise that the employees provide a window into the culture of the business. When I work with happy people who challenge me as much as I challenge them, who are open to new ideas, new ways of thinking and love to collaborate to make things better - that’s a sign that there is a brilliant leader at the helm. It’s reflected in everyone around them. As an agency, it drives our passion - to tell their story and show how the leadership of the business really drives everything else. Not only the culture but ultimately, the bottom line.
I can’t imagine what people will say about me when I’m no longer at Northam Media. But if just one or two people say even just a few of the things I’ve heard said about my friend recently, I will one day retire happy, content in the knowledge that I contributed in some small way.
Jen Northam
Executive Producer @ Northam Media
