When I think about the most influential leaders I’ve worked with, there’s always one unifying trait: relatability. It’s not just their knowledge or authority that sets them apart, but how they connect with people. After all, my twenty-five years of facilitating successful, long-term relationships as a professional matchmaker have given me a unique perspective. One that has taught me a great deal about the value of connection for building lasting relationships in work, life, and love.
Over the years, I’ve seen how this authentic, human approach engages teams and drives long-lasting organizational success. As a female keynote speaker and leadership advisor, I’ve watched this unfold countless times.
In one instance, I worked with a successful CEO named Kathy, who led her team with a firm hand. She believed her authority would be compromised if she let her guard down or shared too much of her struggles. But her team seemed disengaged and distant.
Kathy was also suffering from high levels of stress that she kept to herself and was dealing with a serious family issue. When we discussed the situation, I encouraged her to embrace her authentic self and let people in. When Kathy opened up about her challenges—balancing work with personal loss—something shifted. The same team that once seemed distant now rallied around her, and performance soared. The power of relatability cannot be underestimated.
Why Relatability Matters in Leadership
Relatability breaks down barriers. When leaders present themselves as human, showing vulnerability and honesty, they build trust. Teams no longer feel like they are simply following orders; they feel a genuine connection to their leader and the vision being set. This emotional bond creates loyalty, fosters collaboration, and drives higher performance across the board.
Leaders who are relatable build bridges, not walls. They invite conversation, encourage open feedback, and inspire their teams to go the extra mile. This ripple effect is profound: employees who feel understood and valued bring their best selves to work.
This isn’t just something I’ve witnessed; I’ve also led my organization with the same awareness. As a result, I’ve had the gift of long-term employees who have stayed with me through good and bad times.
They remain dedicated due to the connection we’ve created, the relationship we’ve cultivated, and the feeling of belonging. I cannot stress enough how important it is to integrate this leadership style into your organization.
Building Relatability in Leadership
Share Your Journey
Don’t shy away from sharing your journey. When talking to audiences about leadership, I always weave stories about my missteps, personal growth, and how I’ve navigated challenges. Authenticity draws people in. It makes you real, approachable, and memorable. Every leader has faced adversity, by opening up about yours, you permit others to be human, too.
Be Personable Without Being Personal.
We all know that personal stories may not be appropriate for the workplace. The best way to navigate this is to focus on your shared emotions, not the stories themselves. Sharing how you feel about something is more important than the details.
Empathize with Your Team
Being relatable is more than sharing your story; it’s also about profoundly understanding your team’s experiences. Take the time to listen actively. Create a safe space for people to express themselves, whether sharing struggles or celebrating wins. I always stress listening more than speaking in my work with leadership teams. When people feel heard, they feel valued.
Be Open to Feedback
A relatable leader isn’t just open to giving feedback but receiving it. Leaders who welcome feedback, even when it’s tough to hear, show they’re committed to their and their team’s growth. Opening the door to conversation shows your team that you value their insights and perspectives.
The Long-Term Impact of Relatability
I’ve worked with leaders across industries, and the ones who’ve made the most lasting impact are those willing to connect on a deeper level. One of the most remarkable aspects of leadership is that when you lead with authenticity, you inspire others to do the same. Over time, this creates a culture of trust, transparency, and shared vision.
Reflecting on my journey, I think of the women and men who transformed their leadership approach by embracing their true selves. They didn’t just engage their teams; they empowered them to bring their best selves to work daily. And that’s where true success lies—not in wielding authority but in fostering connection.
