As a consultant in discussions with executives, I learn
Learning as a Consultant in Dialogue with Leaders
July 4, 2024 – In recent weeks, I have once again been active as a speaker for the leaders of various (non-)profit organizations, as I often do. And I must say: The dialogue with them has been very rewarding for me. Among other things, I took away many stimulating thoughts from this experience.
About two weeks ago, I returned from historic Meißen. There, I met with 20 senior representatives of government ministries for an intensive exchange on the topic of “Leadership in Digital Transformation.”
Challenges in Leading Authorities and Offices
Central questions in the discussions included:
Loss of Control and Delegation: How do we manage to develop trust and let go of control even at the highest levels? A bold step, but one that is essential to enable quick and flexible decision-making.
Flat Hierarchies: Can we break free from traditional hierarchies and create a new culture of collaboration? Flatter structures not only promote efficiency but also foster innovation. Are our leaders ready to actively shape this change?
Psychological Safety: An often underestimated factor – how do we create a work environment where employees feel safe enough to express their ideas freely and show more initiative? Psychological safety is the key to open and productive collaboration.
In retrospect, I must say: It was two very intense days at the St. Afra Monastery, with a group of participants who truly wanted to be challenged.
Reacting Flexibly to the Burning Questions of Participants
The exchange with leadership in the public service showed me once again how important it is to be flexible and open as a seminar leader. In fact, I had to completely throw out my original planning to give the required space to the participants' topics. Instead of rigidly presenting and going through the planned exercises, I moderated and orchestrated the discourse of the participants – in accordance with the role of a modern leader.
It was challenging for me to let go of my preparation while still keeping an eye on the thread and the bigger picture or overarching goal. However, the courage to do so was worth it: It was impressive for me to witness how openly and engaged the participants discussed and the wonderful ideas they developed.
Key Insights from the Leadership Dialogue and Discourse
Three essential insights from the discussion were:
Learning to Let Go: True leadership means giving trust and letting go of control. When we are brave enough to take this step, we enable quick and flexible decisions that are indispensable, especially during times of digital transformation.
Creating Space for Greatness: People often achieve remarkable things when we give them the opportunity. A modern leader recognizes the potential in their team and creates the conditions in which this potential can unfold.
No risk, no reward: In the digital transformation, we must be willing to take new paths and take calculated risks. Bold decisions and stepping out of our comfort zone are the keys to success.
Thank you, dear participants and friends, for the warmth and openness with which you welcomed me. Thank you also for your inspiring impulses. Additionally, thank you for the unforgettable time together in Meißen!
Author: Barbara Liebermeister
About the author Barbara Liebermeister
Barbara Liebermeister is the founder and director of IFIDZ — the Institute for Leadership Culture in the Digital Age. As a management consultant, coach, and keynote speaker, she combines business experience with scientific depth and coined the concept of Alpha Intelligence®, which captures the key capabilities modern leaders need. With many years of leadership experience and as a coach for top decision-makers, she has supported organizations of all sizes for more than two decades on their path toward contemporary leadership — practical, strategic, and effective. Insights from her work have informed several books on self-leadership, networking, and leadership in the digital world. Barbara Liebermeister teaches at RWTH Aachen University, Kempten University of Applied Sciences, and other institutions, and also mentors students at universities in Hesse. She studied economics, holds a master’s degree in neuroscience, and has completed training as a business, management, and sports mental coach. Recognized work: For her pioneering work, she was nominated for the #digitalfemaleleader Award in 2017. In 2018, LEADT, the analysis tool developed by her institute to measure digital leadership maturity, received the renowned Wolfgang Heilmann Award at Learntec.
