Finding your voice is a lifelong process.

Yesterday, I had a coaching call with a CEO relatively new to their position. We talked about one issue with a staff member and a separate issue with the board. Two very different circumstances that revealed a common theme: This CEO is still finding their voice.

Finding your voice as a leader isn’t about calibrating the dials like your car radio. Adjusting treble, bass, and balance are responses to passing needs...an open window, grumpy teenager, or favorite sing-along tune are valid reasons to touch that dial. For leaders, however:

Voice is about values, not volume.

Your belief system, including how you feel people should be treated, is reflected in your voice. When CEOs shout, use sarcasm, or dismiss others, it signals the truth about their values.

Yours just might be the most powerful voice in any given room; until you land on your core values, the fundamental beliefs that drive you as a leader, your voice will not resonate.

So wherever you are in your career, I encourage you to reflect on your voice and the values it represents. While you’re at it, don’t forget to listen along the way.
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Notes: I have intentionally used they/their to help mitigate gender bias about the CEO cited above.