Episode 283 - How to Succeed Without the Perfect Boss
Traditional models of leadership have focused on influence over others: inspiring teams, delegating tasks, setting strategic direction. But the definition of leadership is expanding to include how we influence and guide ourselves. Self-leadership is about setting our own direction, managing our mindset, and taking proactive ownership of our careers.
We are witnessing a pivotal shift in how work is experienced and how careers are built, especially in the corporate sector. With mass layoffs making headlines and a growing number of organizations calling employees back to the office, professionals are facing unprecedented uncertainty. For many, the promise of purposeful work seems to conflict with the rigidity and pressure of corporate environments. Yet amid these complexities, there is a powerful idea gaining traction: self-leadership.
In this episode of The Job Hunting Podcast (283), I spoke with Elizabeth Lotardo, a leadership consultant, author, and educator who has worked with companies like Salesforce and Hilton. Her book, Leading Yourself: Finding More Joy, Meaning and Opportunities in the Job You Already Have, and her expertise in employee engagement offer timely and practical guidance for navigating today’s volatile job market. Elizabeth traced the origins of the self-leadership concept to ancient philosophy, yet emphasized that it is now finding new relevance in the corporate world. In 2017, she pioneered the first LinkedIn Learning course on the topic, and interest surged during the pandemic as remote work made self-direction a professional necessity. Her insight is especially relevant now as many organizations reduce headcount, restructure teams, and withdraw flexibility.
This article unpacks our discussion and reflects on how self-leadership is an essential skill for any professional looking to remain competitive, motivated, and fulfilled.
Changing Leadership from External Control to Internal Agency Can Help You Navigate Recession, Restructures, and Return-to-Office Mandates
Many of my clients are currently experiencing what economists call a "white-collar recession" — layoffs across tech, finance, and professional services, compounded by unclear economic signals. Uncertainty around job security is high. Adding to the pressure, some companies are rolling back remote and hybrid work arrangements.
Elizabeth offered a nuanced perspective: arguing against a blanket rejection of return-to-office policies, she instead suggests professionals highlight the traits of self-leadership to advocate for flexibility. This means showcasing your ability to prioritize, maintain high performance remotely, and build relationships virtually. Instead of making a case based on preference, make one based on demonstrated outcomes.
Practical Strategies to Build and Demonstrate Self-Leadership
Sign up for The Job Hunting Newsletter to access subscribers-only content to help you navigate the modern job market and stay competitive. Subscribers will be receiving a list of 5 strategies to help them build and demonstrate self-leadership
Staying Motivated During a Job Search
The job search process is emotionally draining. As Elizabeth reminded us, rejections accumulate faster than wins, making it hard to bounce back. If you’re not receiving positive reinforcement from your job search, you must find it elsewhere: volunteer work, hobbies, friends, family. You need emotional balance to stay the course, especially if you’re aiming for senior or competitive roles.
For those actively interviewing, identifying the right work environment is crucial. If you are a self-starter, avoid roles with overly controlling managers. Elizabeth offered a great interview question: “Tell me about someone you really enjoyed having on your team and why.” Listen closely to what they value: it will reveal their leadership style more than any formal answer.
The Future of Self-Leadership in Corporate Life
Looking ahead, we can expect self-leadership to become a core competency across industries. With AI, automation, and shifting global demands, organizations will increasingly rely on employees who don’t need micromanaging. They want people who understand their role, seek context, and create value proactively.
Professionals who embrace self-leadership will be better positioned to ride out economic waves, navigate change, and even influence workplace culture from the bottom up.
Conclusion
The conversation with Elizabeth Lotardo underscored what I have long believed: waiting for someone else to champion your career is no longer a viable strategy. In a world of rapid change, those who lead themselves will find not only more opportunities but also more meaning and joy in their work. Whether you are currently employed, in transition, or feeling stagnant, the practices of self-leadership—clarifying context, seeking development, crafting your job, managing energy, and reframing setbacks—are timeless and universally applicable.
If you found these ideas compelling, I encourage you to listen to the full episode and subscribe to my weekly newsletter, where I share more insights and tools for job hunters and career professionals.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
Other resources from RenataBernarde.com :
Join us for more career tips: Subscribe to the newsletter and take your career to new heights
More ways I can help you: Learn more about my services, courses, and group coaching
Work with me: Book a time to discuss private coaching for you and achieve your goals faster