Leadership isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept. Spend a few years leading teams across different regions, and you’ll quickly learn that the way leadership shows up in the US is vastly different from how it manifests in Canada or Asia.
In the US, leadership often gets defined by boldness, speed, and assertive decision-making. It’s ambitious, unapologetically confident, and thrives in the spotlight. It’s about making big moves, taking risks, and owning the room.
But head north to Canada, and leadership takes on a different tone. It’s quieter, more measured, and deeply rooted in values and integrity. You won’t see chest-thumping or ego-driven decisions. Instead, Canadian leadership is about listening, aligning, and fostering a sense of collective purpose. It’s less about commanding a room and more about connecting with it.
Then there’s Asia, where hierarchy often dictates leadership style. Deference to authority can sometimes stifle honest communication, but it also fosters a deep sense of respect and tradition. In many Asian cultures, leadership isn’t just about the bottom line; it’s about maintaining harmony and saving face, even when difficult decisions need to be made.
The Power of Flexibility
What makes a truly exceptional leader in today’s globalised business world? It’s not the loudest voice in the room or the most aggressive stance. Nor is it the bombastic leader who likes the sound of his or her own voice. It’s the leader who can bridge these styles: who can be bold yet empathetic, decisive yet humble, visionary yet grounded.
Imagine an American executive expanding into Canada. If they try to bulldoze through with aggressive tactics, they’ll alienate their Canadian counterparts. But if they’re too soft, they may not command the respect needed to get things done.
Or consider a Canadian leader moving into a high-stakes market like New York or Tokyo. If they don’t adapt their style, they risk being perceived as too passive or indecisive. I personally know this feeling.
Leadership Lessons From a Canadian Lens
Canadian leadership isn’t flashy, but it’s powerful. During my years in North America, I witnessed firsthand how Canadian leaders operate:
They don’t chest-beat. They invite dialogue.
They don’t bark orders. They align teams.
They don’t just manage. They mentor.
And in today’s volatile business landscape, that style is more relevant than ever. Why? Because people are tired of ego-driven leadership. They’re looking for connection, for authenticity, for leaders who don’t just talk but listen.
The Global Implications
What happens when American bravado clashes with Canadian humility? When Asian deference meets European directness? The result is often friction, misunderstanding, or worse, a fractured team culture.
But what if leaders learned to flex? What if they learned to lead with boldness when the moment called for it and step back to listen when collaboration was key?
That’s the next frontier for leadership development. It’s not about choosing one style over another. It’s about cultivating a dynamic leadership style that adapts across borders, cultures, and contexts.
Bridging the Gap: Practical Takeaways
Embrace Duality: Learn to balance fire and fairness, vision and values
Lead by Example: Show up as a leader who is consistent, authentic, and willing to flex
Invest in Cultural Intelligence: Understand the cultural norms of the regions you’re working in. What works in New York may not fly in Vancouver, Amsterdam or Tokyo
Cultivate Humility: Canadian leadership thrives on humility. Lead with a listening ear and a commitment to inclusion
Foster Resilience: In a globalised business world, the ability to pivot between styles isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a strategic imperative. Learn to flex and adapt, and you are one step ahead.
