The Leadership Shadow: What Impact Are You Really Making?

Marshall Goldsmith, in What Got You Here Won’t Get You There, wisely states:

“People watch what you do more than they listen to what you say.  Be someone worth emulating.”

Over the years, I’ve built incredible relationships with athletes I’ve coached, co-workers I’ve collaborated with, individuals I’ve mentored, and leaders who became lifelong friends.  These bonds have lasted through career changes, life transitions, and distance.

Why?  Because leadership extends beyond a title, it leaves a lasting shadow.

Whether we realize it or not, our words, actions, and mindset shape the environment around us.  This leadership shadow follows us in three key areas:

On Your Team

Your energy, attitude, and presence set the tone.  If you bring clarity, confidence, and a growth mindset, your team will follow suit.  But if you’re reactive, dismissive, or inconsistent, that becomes the norm, too.  Are you creating a culture of trust and empowerment or fear and hesitation?

On Your Peers

Leadership isn’t about hierarchy—it’s about influence.  Your peers notice how you handle challenges, collaborate, and give credit.  Are you a source of support and solutions or just another roadblock?  Strong leaders elevate those around them, not just themselves.

On Your Executives

Your leadership shadow reaches upward, too.  When executives look at you, do they see someone who owns problems, brings ideas, and drives impact?  Or do they see someone who only identifies issues but waits for others to fix them?  Visibility isn’t about being seen—it’s about showing up with accountability and vision.

Your leadership shadow is cast whether you intend it or not.  The question is: What kind of shadow are you leaving behind?

I’d love to hear your thoughts.  How have you seen the leadership shadow at play in your career?

#Leadership #TeamCulture #LeadByExample #VettaSalesConsulting