Three leadership lessons from my first director job

Three leadership lessons I learned in my first director job (hint: it's all about people)

1️⃣ Don't be a 5-minute expert.

Staff your team with subject-matter experts, give clear strategic guidance, and empower them to own it. Nobody likes a know-it-all.

Respect that *they know more than you* about the subject they just worked on for weeks/months. Disregard their hard work on the basis of your hipshot analysis, you'll lose your team fast.

Instead, ask questions! Guide, coach, and refine - don't override.

2️⃣ Give more credit than you take.

Generously recognize your team's performance instead of hoarding credit. Make it a habit by blocking time on your calendar to write short notes or send a small gift.

It'll accelerate your people, build loyalty, and make you a boss people want to work for.

3️⃣ Make time for your people.

More than anything, they need your time, focus, and support. Whether you're coaching, learning, or letting them blow off steam, nothing's more important than being there for your team.

Regular 1:1s are important, just as critical is making yourself available when they need you, on demand.