Avoid Copying Someone Else’s Leadership Style

Many will tell you that for success, you only need to copy the leadership style of someone you admire and respect. That sounds great at first glance. However, is it a great practice? Not everything is genuinely adaptable in the plug-and-play world, especially regarding processes, methodologies, or values.

Many coaches will use a simple formula to attract clients with the idea that you copy it. Often, this was the same formula or process given to someone else with the hopes that one-size-fits-all would happen.

I always had two rules when I was coaching: 1) Your recommendations would not be canned or regurgitated from someone else so you would get personalized coaching, and 2) I would not be your coach for life — once the questions become fewer and fewer and the proverbial light goes on in your eyes, you are off and running. I will always be available as a friend but not necessarily as a coach.

Adopting someone else’s leadership style might seem like a shortcut to success, but it often leads to challenges and disadvantages.

Here are ten reasons I suggest why you may not want to copy someone else’s leadership style:

1. Loss of Authenticity: Mimicking another’s leadership style can strip away your authenticity. People tend to follow and respect leaders who are genuine to…