The leadership aperture
There has been a quiet change in the meaning of leading.
The concept of leadership has evolved, focusing on those with keen observation skills rather than those who possess all the answers. Marcel Schwantes, in an article for Inc. magazine, suggests that the leaders of the future may excel not by knowing more than others, but by noticing what others overlook. Three human abilities are highlighted as particularly crucial: understanding emotions and group dynamics, adopting a flexible approach to leadership, and cultivating curiosity and humility.
Leadership now involves recognizing the emotional states of individuals and the overall team atmosphere, much like detecting the aperture of a camera that determines the field of view. Behavioral scientist Jeffrey Sanchez-Burks introduces the term "emotional aperture" to describe this ability to perceive not just individual emotions but the broader group mood.
Managers often focus on tasks but fail to notice the subtle cues of their team members' well-being, such as disengagement or quiet withdrawal. By observing these signs and taking appropriate action, leaders can enhance team dynamics.
Situational leadership is another key concept, emphasizing that different approaches are required for different individuals and situations. Experienced employees may require more autonomy and support, while newcomers need guidance and coaching. Leaders must assess each person's needs—whether they seek direction, coaching, support, or space—and adjust their approach accordingly. This flexibility helps leaders provide the right level of support, preventing burnout while fostering growth.
As challenges mount, leaders are urged to embrace "subjective ambivalence" by accepting ambiguity and remaining open to new perspectives. This involves questioning assumptions, seeking diverse viewpoints, and acknowledging that certainty is fleeting. The focus shifts from merely knowing facts to asking insightful questions. For instance, instead of simply needing an answer, leaders should ask, "What am I missing?" and follow up with questions like "What else might be true?" and "What assumptions are we overlooking?"
Curiosity has emerged as a vital leadership competency in the age of artificial intelligence. Leaders must stay curious, continually questioning their own knowledge and seeking deeper insights. They should read their environment, listen actively, and adjust their strategies accordingly. This includes questioning their assumptions, valuing diverse viewpoints, and maintaining humility by admitting the limits of their own knowledge.
By fostering these qualities, leaders can adapt to uncertainty, leverage disruptions, and remain effective amidst pressure and change.
Francis Kong invites readers to attend "The Winning Edge," a seminar-workshop on October 21, 2026, aimed at emerging leaders and high-potential professionals. The event emphasizes personal growth, leadership readiness, confidence, discipline, and a mindset suited for navigating uncertainty and challenges. Participants can contact April or Sylene for more information and registration.
Written by urgent.news from Philippine Star Business's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
