Reno Perry’s Post

Everyone thinks a leader needs a bold personality. But I prefer a leader who is not the loudest in the room. Here's why: Early in my career, I worked for someone who wasn't the loudest in the room. They weren’t outwardly charismatic either. One day, I was feeling off and I tried to hide it. She pulled me aside and asked "Is everything ok?" A small gesture, but it spoke volumes. That's when I realized the value of empathy in leadership. From that point on, manager quality became my top factor when considering any job. 3 things I looked for: 1. Trust and Safety - Do they make people feel heard? - Have they fostered a judgment-free environment? - Are ideas and concerns openly shared? 2. Inclusivity and Respect - Do they appreciate diverse perspectives? - Do they make everyone feel respected? - Do they ensure fairness across the team? 3. Invested in You - Are they interested in helping you grow professionally? - Do they provide constructive feedback? - Do you get recognition for your contributions? Ask questions to tease these out in interviews. Seek examples of how they've done this with others. Observe their interactions with you. I’ll even talk to current and former employees as part of my vetting process. You're not just choosing a job, you're also choosing a manager. A great manager accelerates your career and lifts you up with them. A poor manager can have the opposite effect. Choose wisely. --- Repost 🔁 to help others with this important decision. And follow me for more posts like this.