03.13.2019 Interview with Skip Bowman
What leadership qualities do you most admire and why?
Energy, passion, empathy and humanity!
Describe yourself in 3 words – why these 3 words?
- Inspiring – I love to work with people in ways that light a fire in their hearts and minds to learn, to try, to go beyond their comfort zone.
- Provocative – Most of us need a good shake with some honest truth about ourselves, human nature and the science of organisations. Only when you understand what is really going on, can you possibly grow as a person and leader in ways that release your potential and the potential of those around you.
- Caring – I care about people and understand deeply their struggles in life and at work. When you understand and empathize with the whole person, amazing things can happen.
What’s your mission?
To make global organisations SAFE for great work… Bring attention to how many leaders and organisations bring the worst rather than the best out in people. By making small shifts in mindset and behaviour, we can create empowering and enriching organisations.
How did you begin your speaking career?
I have been teaching and speaking for over 30 years in many different settings. At school, I sang in the choir and performed on stage. Speaking has always come naturally to me.
Do you have a favourite experience from your speaking career?
Doing a spontaneous lecture for 150 university students in a packed room. We couldn’t fit a single extra person in there. And the powerpoint broke down. It was charcoal and blackboard … old style. Lots of interaction, challenge and “ahahs”.
Why do clients typically hire you to speak?
Energy, insight, fun… because I really understand and connect with my audience. And because I work everyday with leaders helping them solve concrete problems in organisations. I don’t just write and speak about it; I practice this.