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Stepping into a leadership role for the first time can be as daunting as it is exciting. While many new leaders focus on achieving results, the most impactful lessons often come from what isn’t in the handbook — like how to build trust, recover from failure and communicate with clarity.
Knowing these lessons from day one can make the difference between simply managing and truly leading. To that end, Rolling Stone Culture Council members share the leadership tips they wish they had known from the beginning, and why those lessons would have made all the difference to how they lead now.
Expect Failure, But Don’t Dwell on It
I wish I had known that failure is part of the journey to success. I used to beat myself up every time something went wrong in my business without realizing that failure is the greatest teacher and should be expected when one dares greatly. I welcome challenges now as a larger part of my path to success. – Victoria Chynoweth
Set Expectations and Communicate Clearly
I wish I had known that managing expectations is as important as delivering results. Early on, I focused on execution, assuming great work would speak for itself. However, in leadership, clear communication, boundary-setting and aligning goals up front are what drive success. Had I mastered these sooner, I could have avoided misalignment, strengthened relationships and scaled more efficiently. – Kristin Marquet, Marquet Media, LLC
Lead With Emotional Stability
Leaders set the emotional tenor of a team or organization. Most people want to work in an environment that feels positive, collaborative and encouraging, but environments only feel that way when leaders intentionally set and maintain that tone. In truth, we all want to feel safe and supported, and emotional stability on the part of the person in charge is a huge part of how we get there. – Jed Brewer, Good Loud Media
The Rolling Stone Culture Council is an invitation-only community for Influencers, Innovators and Creatives. Do I qualify?
Trust and Delegate Early
I wish I’d known the power of trusting and delegating to the right team early on. At my company, learning to step back empowered my teams, reduced burnout and accelerated growth. Trusting others drives creativity, collaboration and success faster than trying to control everything alone. – Francis Hellyer, tickadoo
Embrace Self-Help
The best leaders are visionaries who lead with confidence and set a clear path to success. To lead others, you must first lead yourself. – Adam Ayers, Number 5
Build in More Reflection Time
In the early stages as a leader, it may feel like you’re not doing enough if you’re not working at all times. However, never giving yourself a moment to look back at the outcomes of different projects only hurts you. You’re more likely to learn from your mistakes and understand what went wrong when you take the time to reflect. – Jason Peterson, GoDigital Media Group
Lead With Authenticity and Confidence
Always show up as your authentic self and trust your gut. Don’t let anyone dull your sparkle because when you lift others up, you shine together and create a meaningful impact for both people and business. – Marissa Andrada, Marissa Andrada
Pause Before You Respond
Sometimes sleeping on a decision or waiting until the next day to respond can make all the difference. Also, delegate. You can’t have a successful business without it. – Karina Michel Feld, Tallulah Films
