EP216: Pixie Dust Pep Talk - Adapting in Leadership
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(The notes below are only a brief bullet point summary of what is discussed in the podcast. Be sure to listen to get all of the goodness! If you would like a full transcription of the episode, please send an email to angie@angie-robinson.com.
Most leaders default to leading in the way they prefer to be led.
The same is true with communication. We often communicate in a way that feels supportive and natural to us. But what feels clear and helpful to one person can feel frustrating or confusing to another.
And that’s where misunderstandings begin.
Leadership calls us to look outside of ourselves and consider the preferences of others.
Yes, leadership begins with self-awareness — but it doesn’t stop there.
There Is No One “Right” Way
There is no single “right” way to communicate, make decisions, or connect.
Are there best practices? Absolutely.
Be clear.
Share your why.
Practice active listening.
But effective leadership goes deeper than a communication checklist.
It requires us to move beyond: “This is how I do it. This is my way. This is the only way.”
And instead ask: How can I adapt?
Every Room Holds Different Styles
Imagine walking into a room full of people. You’re guaranteed to be surrounded by a variety of preferred styles.
Some people think out loud.
Others need time to reflect.
Some value structure and written follow-up.
Others want collaboration and conversation.
As leaders, it’s our job to adapt.
Adapting doesn’t mean changing who you are. It means being aware of who you are — and who you’re speaking to.
Adaptability Is Respect
Adaptability is respect. It creates connection.
It says:
I see you.
I’m paying attention.
I care about how this lands — not just how it’s delivered.
When leaders adapt:
Trust grows.
Engagement grows.
Productivity grows.
People feel less like they have to brace themselves or translate your message. They feel met. And connection is what allows teams to move forward together.
Where Adapting Begins
Adapting starts with awareness.
First, awareness of your own preferences:
What feels natural to you?
What do you lean into?
What feels most comfortable?
Then, awareness of others:
What do they need?
How do they process?
How do they prefer feedback?
That second step can be challenging — especially when it requires you to communicate in ways that don’t feel natural.
In my Introduction to Insights workshop, we practice this. Leaders are asked to deliver a message to someone with a different color energy — a different communication preference.
Even in a safe, controlled environment, it stretches people.
Now imagine doing that in real life — without preparation.
It takes intentionality.
What Adapting Might Look Like
Adapting might mean:
Following up in writing.
Asking someone how they prefer feedback.
Adjusting your pace.
Acknowledging feelings before delivering a direct message.
Or being more direct when clarity is needed.
These adjustments don’t weaken your leadership. They strengthen your connection.
And connection fuels collaboration, trust, and results.
Even one small adjustment can change the entire tone of a relationship.
That’s leadership magic.
What Do You Think?
Whose style, perspective, or needs might you need to meet halfway right now?
Links
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Discover Your Personality Style Quiz [download]
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