Business Builders (Pt.43) Leadership vs. Likability: Are You Leading or People-Pleasing?

In this episode of the Business Builder Series, Staci explores a common challenge many small business owners face as they grow: the desire to be liked by their team so deeply that it gets in the way of actual leadership. She breaks down what it looks like to step into the role of a true coach, why clarity matters more than being the “nice boss,” and how avoiding discomfort can quietly limit a business’s growth.

Key topics covered:

• Why early hires often feel like family and how that impacts leadership
• The difference between kindness and people-pleasing
• How lack of clarity, expectations, and boundaries can sabotage a company’s ability to scale
• What it means to lead from the “coach’s view” and see the full picture
• Key traits of strong leadership: direct communication, accountability, and empathy with boundaries
• Why respect comes before likability, and why that order matters
• The risks of avoiding tough conversations or feedback to keep everyone comfortable

Challenge:

Listeners are encouraged to identify one area where their desire to be liked is causing them to avoid leadership. They should write down the tough conversation, feedback, or boundary they’ve been avoiding, and note what could become possible if they addressed it.

Staci's Links:
Instagram. Website.

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