Have you ever thought back to the managers who shaped your early career? Picture two contrasting figures: One who showed up every day with a rock-solid presence and an authenticity that made you feel genuinely supported. Then there's the other—a leadership rollercoaster who could be enthusiastically inspiring one moment and utterly cold the next. You never knew which version would walk through the door. These memories reveal a profound leadership truth that's often overlooked: consistency is more than a management strategy; it's a key ingredient that creates an environment where people feel safe enough to be vulnerable and brave enough to take risks.
A consistent leader elicits a natural trust
A partner in a leading wealth management firm developed deep insight during the formative years of her career, while working for a woman who built “team psychological safety” before Amy Edmundson coined the term in 1999. Her manager came to work with such genuineness that every conversation felt transparent and meaningful. When the young aspirant was not given a desired new position, her manager invited her into a straightforward discussion. Rooted in mutual respect and trust, this pivotal conversation kicked off a decades-long mentorship that ultimately led to other roles and milestones.
Conversely, an executive at another financial institution observed a charismatic colleague whose inconsistent behavior held her back from an accelerated promotion. The firm's leadership praised this individual’s quantitative results but could not reward her interpersonal style. This executive learned early on that a reliable and predictable professional persona is the key to winning broad-based support.
A consistent leader instills confidence in their teams
One of a leader’s responsibilities is to help their teams navigate change. Team members naturally look to and mirror their leader’s attitudes and behaviors. A professional services firm COO saw the need to confidently lead teams through unclear situations, a challenge that only intensified once she moved into the C-suite. A former mentor once advised that uncertainty can be profoundly stressful for teams if not managed effectively. Rather than adopting a "fake it til you make it" approach, she has learned to identify core priorities and address uncertainty through methodical problem-solving, thereby creating a sense of stability for her team.
When a dynamic manufacturing manager was promoted to an executive role, she resolved to regularly walk the plant floor as a way to build relationships with frontline employees. She is intentional about blocking her schedule to make the rounds and, with consistency as her ideal, she won’t walk the floor if she’s tired or overly stressed. Her deliberate approach of connecting employees to stable leadership, the broader corporate strategy, and a greater purpose creates an environment of mutual respect and shared commitment.
A consistent leader may need to tap into personal roots for inspiration
Many professionals find that unconditional support in their personal lives (undoubtedly, a gift) helps them overcome challenging professional periods. A Managing Director maintained her equilibrium during a turbulent overseas assignment by talking daily with her family at lunchtime. Similarly, an ambitious lawyer relaunching her career after an extended maternity leave found strength in her husband's consistent belief in her potential, which helped her to see herself more objectively and embrace professional growth.
Hidden gems for aspiring leaders and current executives
Your professional journey is about carefully defining your identity while leaving space for growth. Think of it as creating a personal blueprint that can flex and adapt, while always remaining rooted in its values-based foundation. The magic happens when your colleagues can anticipate your perspective, making even challenging conversations feel more like collaborative problem-solving than personal criticism.
Define your professional identity with intention, allowing room for adaptation while remaining true to core values.
Create an environment where team members can anticipate your perspective, making constructive feedback more readily accepted and processed.
Recognize that trust is the currency of great leadership, and consistency is how you make those deposits, especially during turbulent times.
Draw strength from the consistently supportive relationships in your personal life, using them as models of authenticity, guidance, and inspiration.
Have you worked with a colleague whose consistency or inconsistency shaped your leadership style? I’d love to hear your story. Post here to share with others who can learn from your experience or email me at rachel@rachel-wexler.com.
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