Emily M. Dickens

To strike the right balance between collaboration and centralized decision-making, start by clearly defining roles and responsibilities. Promote open communication to ensure team members feel heard and valued, while keeping the final decision-making authority centralized for efficiency. Encourage input and feedback but maintain a clear, decisive leadership structure to drive alignment and keep projects on track. This approach respects diverse perspectives while ensuring that decisions are made swiftly and effectively.

As a lifelong learner, I believe the most powerful way to grow as an executive leader is by practicing active listening and civility. While self-care and leading advancements are essential, true growth comes from listening to and learning from those around us—whether they’re coaches, colleagues, or employees. Everyone brings unique perspectives and experiences to the table. We can evolve as leaders and drive meaningful change by being open to these diverse viewpoints. All it takes is a willingness to listen.

Continuing education is crucial for leadership growth, but applying what you’ve learned can be challenging once the course or conference ends. I’ve found that setting clear goals is key to bridging that gap. Whether personal, like dedicating an hour to self-care or learning, these goals not only keep you focused but also bring a sense of personal fulfillment. By setting these goals and outlining actionable steps, you ensure that you’re consistently applying new knowledge to your daily practice.

Not everyone communicates the same way, and that’s more than okay—it’s a great thing. Diversity comes in many forms, each bringing unique value. However, leaders must fairly evaluate all employees, regardless of communication style, to foster a truly inclusive workplace. This requires a conscious effort to avoid snap judgments, promote peer feedback and self-assessment, and set clear evaluation criteria and guidelines. By doing so, leaders can ensure a fair and inclusive environment where everyone’s contributions are recognized and appreciated.

As technology improves, new trends will evolve. Leading your team through these changes requires several factors to come into play. One of the most important things is educating yourself on what trends will directly impact you, which are good to know, and which will have no bearing on your industry. As you identify emerging trends pertinent to your organization, it becomes your responsibility to communicate them and their potential impacts. More importantly, it's your role to provide learning opportunities for team members to upskill and reskill. This commitment to the growth and development of your employees not only helps the organization grow but also furthers their skills and careers.

Connecting with diverse audiences starts with adapting your tone and communication style. As a New Yorker, I'm naturally direct, but that approach doesn't suit everyone. At times, being direct won't effectively convey the message. It's crucial to be empathetic and tailor your communication to what resonates with your audience, rather than sticking to your preferred style.