The path to character growth. In this episode Judith Germain speaks to Dane Deutsch about character-driven leadership and ethics. Dane shares how his experiences growing up in different cultures, including Venezuela and Türkiye, taught him the importance of building meaningful connections and leading with character.
This episode was originally recorded on 28 November 24. You can listen to Episode 473 on any of the popular podcast platforms or apps (including Spotify, and Audible). If you prefer to listen to your browser you can do that below. Enjoy!
Key Takeaways
- Character is the foundation of effective leadership, but is often overlooked in business
- Character skills can be developed through practice, unlike personality which is more fixed
- Leading with character means prioritising adding value to others, not just technical competence
- Cultural context impacts perceptions of character, but universal positive traits exist across cultures
Topics
The Tricycle Effect Model of Leadership
- Big front wheel represents character skills (e.g. trustworthiness, empathy, integrity)
- Two smaller back wheels are technical skills and people skills
- Seat represents courage to make right decisions
- Character wheel provides direction and momentum in life/leadership
Developing Character Skills
- Character skills can be improved through practice, unlike personality
- Small, consistent steps lead to character growth over time
- Embracing struggles/failures helps build character
- Character skills can become habits through repetition
Cultural Perspectives on Character
- What’s considered “good character” varies across cultures
- Universal positive traits exist (e.g. care, respect) that add value across cultures
- Important to learn cultural norms to show respect when in different environments
- Leading with character means adapting approach while maintaining core values
Measuring Character in Business
- Character often not measured or prioritised in corporate settings
- KRW International developed method to measure character of C-suite leaders
- High-character CEOs put people first and led to better business outcomes
- Technical skills alone insufficient; character foundation needed
Ethics in Technology
- New technologies can be used for good or evil depending on user’s character
- Critical to develop ethical leaders in tech fields like cybersecurity
- Teaching ethics alongside technical skills helps develop well-rounded professionals
In this conversation Dane defines character as the imprint or habits we develop, which can be practiced and improved over time. He discusses how character skills like care and empathy are often overlooked in corporate settings, but are crucial for adding value to others and achieving lasting significance.
Dane is a Character Leadership Coach.
Dane Deutsch can be found on LinkedIn here. His website is here.
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