61. Leadership Myths Exposed: Why Soft Skills Are the Real Game-Changer with Natalie Serebrennik

LEADERSHIP MYTHS – SECRETS OF THE CAREER GAME — EPISODE 61

What if the true path to successful leadership isn’t about perfection but fostering trust and collaboration? Kendall Berg and Natalie Serebrennik dive deep into leadership myths, from the misconception that assertiveness means aggression to the belief that leaders must have all the answers. Natalie reveals how effective leaders show compassion and empathy, motivating their teams from a place of genuine connection. 

Discover why soft skills like adaptability and clear communication are essential for career growth—and how today’s top executives are breaking old-school stereotypes to create empowered, resilient teams. Get ready for insights that could redefine your approach to leadership.

The Myth of Aggressive Leadership: What Really Drives Success

Does effective leadership require aggression? Natalie Serebrennik challenges this outdated belief and highlights a better way forward. In high-pressure environments, the balance between assertiveness and empathy makes all the difference. Kendall Berg shares how modern leadership is evolving from “command and control” to building trust and collaboration. Together, they explore why today’s leaders succeed not through perfection, but by owning their mistakes and inspiring others to grow. This conversation is a game-changer for anyone looking to redefine leadership in the workplace.

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Key Takeaways

Leadership Qualities + Leadership Myths (00:00 – 09:35)

• Successful leadership involves inspiring and motivating others
• Leaders should create a culture of trust and collaboration
• Myth: Leaders need to be aggressive to be effective
• Myth: Leaders must have all the answers and be perfect
• Importance of admitting mistakes and taking ownership

Leadership Skills and Career Progression (09:35 – 18:44)

• Soft skills are crucial for moving from good to great leadership
• Technical skills are important, but not sufficient for career advancement
• Meritocracy alone can lead to toxic work environments
• Importance of communicating vision and advocating for oneself and team
• Need to take control of one’s career and ask for what you want

Innovation and Leadership Strategies (18:44 – 26:15)

• Encourage out-of-the-box thinking and challenge the status quo
• Create psychological safety for team experimentation and creativity
• Importance of collaboration across different teams
• Leaders should focus on innovating current processes to offer new value
• Building a robust network beyond immediate manager for career progression

Executive Leadership Challenges and Success Factors (26:15 – 35:59)

• Retaining and attracting good talent is a major challenge
• The younger generation, more inclined to change jobs if unfulfilled
• Flexibility in work hours and location is highly valued
• The ability to recruit former team members is a valuable asset for executives
• Importance of seeking and acting on feedback for leadership growth

That Career Coach

Want to know more about Kendal Berg, that career coach?

Follow her on Instagram: @thatcareercoach_

Check out her courses on the website: https://thatcareercoach.net/

Build out the tools you need to navigate the corporate game: — Self Driven Mastermind

 Learn more about Symposia: https://www.symposia.com/channel-partner/kb-3  

Learn more about Natalie Serebrennik

Website: https://www.natalieserebrennik.com/

Instagram: @natalie.serebrennik