Poets in the Boardroom

Theme: Humanizing leadership in a time of change 

Years ago, I worked at Otis Elevator Company during a time of major transition. The company was downsizing manufacturing in New York and relocating operations — tensions were high, and morale was low. 

Amidst all this, I found myself in conversation with the CEO — a man carrying the weight of these decisions. I discovered something unexpected: he was a poet. He had never shared that part of himself at work. We spoke about it, and eventually, he began publishing his poetry in the company newsletter alongside business updates. 

What shifted? A sense of connection. People began seeing the human behind the decisions. And he, in turn, created more space for vulnerability and trust in a difficult time. 

How might moments of your personal sharing create new trust and connection during times of change? 

WHY THIS MATTERS IN COACHING: In times of transition, leaders often feel they must armor up. But real leadership invites transparency and connection. I help executives find the courage to show up with both authority and humanity — because that’s where transformation begins.