Introduction: Unraveling the Heart of Leadership 🎯
Leadership—an art, a science, or both? In this insightful conversation with Janet Polach, a retired Marine Corps lieutenant colonel, global leadership coach, and author of The Seven Mistakes New Managers Make, we explore the core elements that make a leader truly effective. From military discipline to corporate innovation, Janet offers valuable lessons for anyone navigating the complexities of leadership today. Let’s dive into her fascinating journey and uncover actionable strategies to inspire growth and change.

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From Elementary Dreams to the Marine Corps 🚀

Janet’s leadership journey didn’t start where one might expect. Growing up in a time when women often became teachers or nurses, young Janet imagined herself as an elementary school teacher. But when recession-era job markets closed some doors, the Marine Corps opened another. Attracted by the values of camaraderie and discipline, Janet found herself in one of the most demanding environments imaginable, where she discovered the foundations of leadership.

Her story is a reminder that life’s unexpected twists often lead us to the most profound lessons. “Leadership,” she says, “isn’t something people are born with—it’s developed.”

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Lessons in Leadership: Art or Science? 🎨⚗️

When asked if leadership is an art or a science, Janet’s response is straightforward: it’s both. Leaders aren’t just effective strategists; they must also create harmony within their teams—like conductors orchestrating a symphony. Feedback loops, setting expectations, and fostering growth are essential components of leadership, whether in the military or corporate space.

💡 Takeaway: Leaders who invite feedback and encourage creativity can unlock the full potential of their teams. Janet emphasizes that “the willingness to work through others is what truly defines effective leadership.”

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The Seven Mistakes New Managers Make (And How to Avoid Them) 🚦

Janet’s book highlights the seven most common pitfalls for new leaders. These mistakes resonate across industries, offering timeless advice:

1. Doing Instead of Leading – New managers often try to do everything themselves. Effective leadership means learning to delegate.
2. No Plan, No Execution – Without clear objectives, even the best teams struggle to perform.
3. Ignoring Team Development – Leaders must take an active role in growing their team’s skills.
4. Avoiding Feedback – Honest feedback fuels growth. Both giving and receiving it are critical for progress.
5. Failing to Develop Influence – Influence isn’t just for senior leaders. Learning to influence peers and superiors is essential.
6. Sticking with the Status Quo – Leaders must challenge norms to inspire innovation.
7. Managing Change Poorly – Change is inevitable. Managing it well is what sets great leaders apart.

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Navigating Change: Leadership in Action 🔄

One of the biggest challenges leaders face is managing change. Janet points out that fear of change often comes from the assumption that everything will change, when in reality, only certain processes or systems may shift. Leaders who succeed in managing change focus on identifying what remains constant and understanding how stakeholders are impacted.

💡 Pro Tip: “Ask how others will be impacted by change,” says Janet. This mindset shifts the focus from self-preservation to collective success, enabling smoother transitions.

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From Military Precision to Corporate Mastery 🏢

Drawing on her Marine Corps experience, Janet emphasizes the importance of leadership training, even in non-military environments. The Marine Corps teaches young officers—regardless of their background—how to wear their uniform, understand tactics, and develop leadership skills. This holistic training approach contrasts with the corporate world, where individual contributors are often promoted to managerial roles without preparation.

“Leadership isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about being willing to learn,” Janet explains. She encourages leaders to form book clubs, attend seminars, or join mastermind groups to share insights and sharpen their skills.

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Janet’s Favorite Leadership Strategy: ‘Make It Worse’ 🧩

One of Janet’s favorite problem-solving techniques is humorously called “Make it Worse.” This involves brainstorming how a situation could be made worse, then flipping those ideas to identify improvements. For example, if poor customer service means not answering calls, the reverse solution is to ensure all calls are answered promptly. This method sparks creativity by encouraging teams to think outside the box.

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Final Thoughts: Embrace Feedback and Lead from Within 💡

As Janet reflects on her leadership journey, one truth stands out: leadership requires humility. Leaders must be willing to ask for feedback, challenge the status quo, and work through others to achieve greatness.

Her company, In The Lead, embodies these principles by helping executives and teams unlock their leadership potential. Whether working with global executives or new managers, Janet’s goal is clear: help leaders lead from within.

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Closing Note 📝
If there’s one piece of advice Janet leaves us with, it’s this: “In doubt, ask for feedback.” Leadership is a continuous journey of learning and growth, fueled by honest reflection and a willingness to improve.

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📍 Explore More:
Visit Janet’s website at in.co or learn more about her journey and insights at janet.com.

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