Leadership & Approachability - Maybe Ditch That Style, As Citigroup's Jane Fraser Is Doing

 At one time, notes Financial Times, Citigroup CEO Jane Fraser was known for approachability. Now that she is pulling out all stops to restructure that financial institution whose stock is not doing so hot she has shifted into another leadership style: harsh and non-transparent. 

For instance, Fraser told those not committed to the new direction to "get off the train." She also is holding her cards close to her vest in the particulars of her plan, especially about chopping headcount.

Meanwhile the CEO of distressed Disney Bob Iger, whose signature had been the charm offensive, is not so much of a me-to-you connector any more. The tone of his communications seems to be border on brittle. The tension is palpable. And we are careful about that force field. 

Also known for charm the head of law firm Paul Weiss Brad Karp has unleashed stunner moves such as three raids on giant law firm Kirkland & Ellis. Rather than thinking about that guy as someone you'd like to have a beer with you might be more likely to be equally a secretive system when in his orbit. Who knows what his next is and if it could impact you. 

In these volatile uncertain times more leaders may be adopting the "Prince" playbook of Niccolo Machiavelli. A key lesson there is that, given some circumstances, it is "safer" to be feared than loved. Sure, it would be jolly fine to leverage both. That's what Machiavelli observes. However, that's not always the smart positioning, given the situation. 

On LinkedIn there is plenty of pontificating about leadership. The reality is that there is no one absolute best style. Back when the US was no longer the top dog in international trade Chrysler CEO Lee Iacocca shocked in using non-corporatese in his turnaround talk. He was non-WASPY blunt and used words like "gonna." Chrysler didn't go bankrupt and put out there the revolutionary mini-van. 

Machiavelli was on the money: Leadership style is all about context. So is our own personal branding. More of us are showcasing a direct tough persona as economic shocks pile up. 

I help with all your communications. That ranges from coaching to strategy and research to writing and editing. Complimentary consultation. Please contact Jane Genova at 203-468-8579 (texting and phone) and janegenova374@gmail.com.


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