Americans expect leaders to provide clear direction—vision, guidance, decisions—while also remaining responsive to followers’ input and concerns. Neither pure direction-giving nor pure responsiveness satisfies American expectations. The leader who never listens seems autocratic; the leader who never directs seems weak. Good leadership involves navigating between these orientations: knowing when to decide and when to consult, when to hold course and when to adjust.
When working with Americans, provide clear direction so people know where they are going and what matters. But also listen to feedback, remain open to input, and adjust when appropriate. Americans want leaders who lead and leaders who listen—the same person doing both.
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