Intelligence Quote by Liz Wiseman
““Some leaders seemed to drain intelligence and capability out of the people around them. Their focus on their own intelligence and their resolve to be the smartest person in the room had a diminishing effect on everyone else.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Multipliers, 2010
Leaders who prioritize being the smartest suppress others' contributions, reducing overall team intelligence.
In simple terms: Smart‑centered leaders hinder team growth.
Encourage others to share ideas.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- brainstorming sessions
- project teams
- classrooms
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you shift from a “smartest” to a “multiplier” mindset?
- What practices foster collective intelligence?
Such leaders may think they’re protecting quality, but they stifle innovation.