Collaboration and Leadership Lessons from the U.S. Department of Commerce

In a time of turmoil and uncertainty, you know what gave me hope yesterday? 50 rockstar leaders from across the U.S. Department of Commerce who showed up, rolled up their sleeves, and dove into some of the toughest leadership challenges out there.

I had the absolute privilege of leading an executive education session at Harvard Business School as part of the Secretary’s Leadership Seminar. And let me tell you – this crew was sharp, bold, and seriously committed to making government work better for all of us.

Some of my favorite takeaways from the session:

• Some people are far more comfortable than others in “blowing their own horn” (i.e., articulating their accomplishments). So when people need to explain their value, it can help to reframe the exercise as “Here are the strengths I can use to support my colleagues.”

  
  

• Helping other people (newcomers, juniors, etc.) to build their professional network isn’t an act of charity: it’s smart business sense because the denser your network, the more trust is embedded.

  
  

• Some of my kinfolk from Lancaster County, PA (aka, Pennsylvania Dutch country) are serving in these important positions, which makes me super proud.

Public service isn’t for the faint of heart – but if this group is any indication, our future leaders at this agency are dedicated and capable. I’m honored to be part of their journey.