Better way Quote by Reed Markham PhD
“The communication style of leaders helps us distinguish great leaders from the wannabes. When facing a problem the great leader says, Let's find out, while the wannabe says that nobody knows. Great leaders communicate commitment while wannabe leaders make promises. Great leaders have the capacity to listen while wannabes can't wait for their turn to talk. Great leaders say there is a better way to do this, while wannabes say this is the way we have always done things around here. Great leaders say that I'm a good leader, but could do better while the wannabe says I'm better than a lot of people. Great leaders take accountability for their mistakes while the wannabe points fingers and says it's your fault.”
About This Quote
Source Article: Leadership Communication, Reed Markham PhD, 2020
Effective leaders communicate openness, accountability, and improvement, while pretenders focus on certainty and self‑promotion.
In simple terms: Good leaders listen and admit flaws; bad leaders boast and blame.
Key Takeaway
Embrace humility and active listening.
Themes
leadership
communication
accountability
humility
listening
Mood
inspirational
reflective
Type
leadership
development
When to use this quote
- team meetings
- crisis management
- performance reviews
Key Concepts
psychology of influence
organizational behavior
conflict resolution
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you foster a culture of honest dialogue?
- What steps show accountability in practice?
A Different Perspective
Leaders may still lack resources to act.
