Have you ever been labelled as “the quiet one” and felt like your leadership style was overlooked because of it?
If so, you’re not alone.
As a quiet leader or founder, your approach to leadership is not just valid—it’s powerful. Quiet leadership is about leading with empathy, thoughtfulness, and deliberate action. It’s a style that can create a profound impact on both team dynamics and business growth.
Whether you’re running your own business or leading within an organization, you have a unique leadership advantage. Here’s how you can maximize it.
Firstly, what is quiet leadership?
Quiet leadership is a leadership style that emphasizes empathy, thoughtful communication, and leading by example. Quiet leaders prioritize their team’s success, make reflective decisions, and influence others through actions rather than words, fostering a supportive and collaborative environment.
3 Actionable Tips to Lead Powerfully as a Quiet Leader or Founder:
1. Communicate Thoughtfully: Lead with Precision
As a quiet leader or founder, you thrive when you have time to process information before making decisions. This reflective approach allows you to make sound, strategic choices that consider both the big picture and the details.
For example: The next time you’re faced with a high-stakes decision, instead of rushing to respond, ask for a moment to reflect. This could be as simple as saying, “I’d like to take some time to think this through before I provide a solution.” This not only ensures better decisions but also shows your team that thoughtful consideration leads to strong outcomes.
What does this look like practically?
As a quiet leader, I maintain a no-impromptu-meeting policy whenever possible. This gives both me and my team time to prepare and bring our best thinking to the table, improving the quality of discussions and outcomes.
2. Lead by Example, Not by Volume: Influence Through Action
One of the biggest misconceptions about leadership is that the loudest voice in the room holds the most power. Quiet leaders don’t need to dominate conversations to have influence. Your strength lies in leading by example and allowing your actions to speak louder than words.
For example: Celebrate your team’s successes openly, and focus on elevating others. By amplifying the achievements of your team, you create a culture of recognition and growth. This reinforces your leadership position and fosters a team-centric approach, which can boost morale and productivity.
3. Build Deep, Meaningful Relationships: Prioritize People Over Processes
As a quiet leader, one of your strongest skills is the ability to create meaningful, authentic connections with those you work with. You take the time to understand your team’s strengths, weaknesses, and motivations, which allows you to lead with empathy and care.
Scheduling regular one-on-one check-ins with your team members where the focus is not just on work progress but on personal and professional development. By asking questions like, “What are your goals, and how can I support you?” you show that you are invested in their growth, creating loyalty and trust.
Take a look below for a list of questions that can help you spark better career conversations with your team members. In our free email course ‘Lead with Strengths:
A 5-day course to Building High-Performing Teams’, I share a detailed guide with 41 more questions to spot hidden talent, boost engagement and build a high-performing team culture.
Quiet leadership isn’t about staying in the shadows—it’s about leading with intention, empathy, and depth. Whether you’re building your own company or leading a team, remember that your quiet approach is not just powerful—it’s transformational.
For more Quiet leadership tips you may check this blog.
