Leadership in a Noisy World
I’m watching Apple Cider Vinegar on Netflix, and it got me thinking—enough to write a blog anyway. It sparked thoughts about information, accessibility, and the overwhelming noise we navigate daily. We live in a world where information is abundant, but truth is not always easy to find. The sheer volume of content, whether factual or not, influences everything from minor choices to life-altering decisions.
And that led me to reflect not only on so-called influencers—who wield immense power over people’s lives, particularly young people—but also on what leadership truly means. What does it take to be a good leader in an era of endless information and misinformation? How can we ensure that we have a positive influence on the people around us?
A quick Google search will give you thousands of results on leadership—qualities, styles, and even courses promising to turn you into an exceptional leader (often at a steep price). But beyond these definitions and paid coaching sessions, I’m more interested in the human element: How do we know if we’re actually doing a good job as leaders?
For those who have worked with me, you’ll know that I often compare our work team to a rugby team. No one player is more important than another. Sure, some positions may get more limelight, but they wouldn’t shine without the efforts of the entire team. You can’t win a rugby game without the forwards doing the grunt work. And the coach can’t be on the field telling the players what to do. All players need to work towards the whole team vision and goal, ensuring that their contributions align with collective success rather than individual recognition.
That, to me, is the essence of leadership. It’s not about one person standing at the top giving orders; it’s about being a coach, a supporter, and a facilitator. It’s about knowing every player on the team—recognising their strengths, trusting their expertise, and empowering them to make the right decisions when needed.
A true leader doesn’t dictate; they create an environment where people feel confident making decisions. Leadership is about setting the game plan, offering guidance, and then standing back, cheering from the sidelines as your team executes. It’s about giving people the tools, the confidence, and the space to succeed—not micromanaging or controlling.
So, in a world filled with noise, where leadership advice is abundant but often transactional, let’s go back to basics. Let’s focus on the human connection, the trust, and the empowerment that truly define what it means to lead.
And maybe, just maybe, we’ll find that leadership isn’t about standing at the front—it’s about making sure everyone else has the chance to shine.
With a background in instructional design and business management, Brooke brings creativity and energy to RTO Works. Focused on business growth, she continuously seeks ways to streamline operations and innovate. Her passion for people and the planet is reflected in her leadership, fostering a culture of respect and trust that helps her team thrive.
