Advice for new leaders from Jonathan Moody: Be yourself
New people are stepping into leadership roles everywhere you look in the Columbus region. The first year in the role can be a whirlwind—learning about the company or organization, either for the first time or learning about it from a different vantage point; getting to know lots of new names and faces if you came from outside; and perhaps finding some things you would like to do differently.
Columbus CEO's April 2020 cover package, "The Great Leadershift," featured advice from six leaders in their first few years. Here is what they shared.
Jonathan Moody, CEO, Moody Nolan
Establishing your style: Being yourself is the most important thing you can do. You have a unique perspective that only you can bring to each scenario you are presented with. Trying to do things the way you think others want them done leads to volatility. Being your authentic self will help you perform to your highest level.
Choosing your team: Recognize your strengths and weaknesses. Be honest about this. Choose team members who legitimately complement both your strengths and weaknesses.
Initiating change: Not great advice, but there’s no ideal way...like a Band-Aid, jump in with both feet and rip it off.
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How to use time: My goal is thirds...one third on strategic efforts, one third on managing the managers and one third on projects. It’s important to stay connected to what your business does.
Balancing your personal life with work: Streaming date nights—we don’t often get nights out on our own, but my wife and I take full advantage of all of the streaming devices we have. We have a whole list of movies and shows that we take in on Friday and Saturday nights that we stay home. Story time with kids—Our goal is to read 20 minutes a day to my son and daughter, but we don’t always get there. Right now we’re making our way through “Bedtime Inspirational Stories: 50 Amazing Black People Who Changed the World.” One of our consistent favorites is “Beautiful Moon: A Child’s Prayer”
See advice for new leaders from:
Lori Gillett, CEO, Corna Kokosing
Dr. Steve Markovich, president and CEO, OhioHealth