Open Minded Leadership

In his leadership mindset presentation, Harvard Business School professor Robert Steven Kaplan discusses what it means to be a leader. He first identifies the characteristics one must have. A good leader knows what he or she believes in, can act on these convictions and do it in a way that adds value to the company. He notes the challenges leaders run into. This includes not asking questions, failing to adapt to new situations and a fear of being vulnerable. Many people think leadership means having all the answers, but Kaplan asserts strong leadership is about having an open mind.

From there he mentions the importance of having a vision, establishing three to five top priorities and organizational alignment. The leadership mindset presentation also differentiates between mentorship and coaching, and the importance of having a mentor in business.