Be a chef? No, thank you! - Expert at Bayern 2 and ARD alpha

Be a boss? No, thank you! – Expert at Bayern 2 and ARD alpha

January 29, 2025 – Yesterday, I had the opportunity to speak in the radio program Tagesgespräch of the broadcaster Bayern 2 as well as the television station ARD alpha about a topic that affects many: Why are more and more people hesitant to take on a leadership role?

The invitation from Bayerischer Rundfunk came at short notice – but the discussion was all the more exciting: For one hour, I was able to answer questions from the viewers and listeners as an expert. It was great that the program was broadcast not only on Bayern 2 on the radio but also live on television on ARD alpha.

Leadership in the Digital Age: More Humanity, Less Status

During the live broadcast, it quickly became clear: leadership is less about status and more about a challenge that requires sensitivity, clarity, and courage. And this has not just become the case today!

Many listeners shared their experiences with supervisors and their boss tendencies; but also about the high expectations and performance pressure that leaders face today. There was a palpable sense of uncertainty about what makes a "good leader" in a time characterized by rapid change.

Radio and Television Discussion Shows: Leadership is Becoming More Human

To lead people effectively today, one must be able to deal with uncertainties and communicate empathically. Additionally, one must provide orientation to people. Furthermore, one must be reliable.

Particularly interesting was the exchange about what leaders really need today: not more control but more trust. The ability to maintain an overview in complex situations and to endure contradictions is becoming increasingly important. Additionally, a leader must be approachable and remain so.

Companies React and Rethink Career Paths

Then I received a call from an employee of the Allianz Group. He reported that his company had deliberately created new career paths to make it easier for employees to take on leadership roles – through 'shared' leadership positions according to the so-called "Shared Leadership principle." A remarkable example of how companies are finding new ways to not only attract talents but also retain them long-term.

Radio and Television Program Shows: Leadership is Changing

The discussion has once again shown: leadership in the digital age is not a rigid concept but is evolving. It requires courage, attitude, and above all a deep understanding of the people one accompanies.

Thanks to Bayerischer Rundfunk for the invitation – and to all the individuals who contributed to the discussion during the live program! I was also pleased that the moderators repeatedly referred to my expertise in the area of leadership and (self-)leadership during the show and in this context also mentioned my book "The Leader as Influencer: How to Win Employees as Followers" as well as the Leadership studies of IFIDZ – because a bit of advertising never hurts!

Recording of the Television Program on ARD-alpha

In the ARD Mediathek, you will also find a recording of the program "Money, Power, Responsibility: Is Being a Boss for You?" in which I was a guest. Maybe you should take a look!

Author: Barbara Liebermeister