Transitioning from Expert Operator to People Leader

Scientific and technical expertise can earn someone a leadership role, but leading people calls for a different kind of awareness. Lab managers may be accustomed to staying objective, reserved, or focused on the work itself, yet the way a leader communicates, responds to challenges, and interacts with others shapes how their team experiences their leadership.

This session will help attendees better understand how they show up as leaders. Participants will examine their strengths, personality traits, core values, and natural tendencies, then consider how those qualities influence their leadership style and relationships with others. The session will also explore where familiar habits may help or hinder effective leadership and how managers can adapt their approach without feeling like they need to become someone they are not.

Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of their own leadership identity and practical ways to lead with greater self-awareness, intention, and authenticity.

Key takeaways

Attendees will learn how to:

• Identify the strengths, values, and personality traits that shape their leadership style
• Recognize how their natural communication and interpersonal tendencies affect how others experience their leadership
• Understand where habits that serve them well as scientists or technical experts may create challenges when leading people
• Adapt their leadership approach to different people and situations while staying true to their core values