The Leadership Iceberg: What’s Beneath the Surface Matters Most

When we assess leaders, we often focus on the visible traits - confidence, communication, decision-making. But much like an iceberg, what’s beneath the surface has the greatest impact. True leadership starts with self-awareness and an understanding of what drives behaviour, not just in ourselves, but in those we lead.

The Leadership Iceberg Model

Above the waterline, we see:

• Behaviour (how someone acts in the workplace)

• Words and communication style (how they express themselves)

• Position and appearance (how they present themselves professionally)

But these visible elements are just the tip. Below the waterline, the deeper elements drive leadership success:

• Beliefs and values (what truly matters to them)

• Motivations and aspirations (what fuels their drive)

• Past experiences and cultural background (what shaped their perspective)

My Own Leadership Journey: Lessons from Above and Below the Waterline

Reflecting on my own leadership journey has been invaluable. Over time, I’ve recognised the leadership behaviours and traits I admire, and these have helped shape the kind of leader I strive to be. But I’ve also seen the dangers of losing sight of guiding values - something that can happen all too often, especially as we progress in our careers.

Dr. David Rock, a pioneer in NeuroLeadership, highlights how as leaders rise in rank, their reliance on technical skills often diminishes. Instead, their focus shifts to strategic thinking, decision-making, and influencing others. While this transition is necessary, it can create a disconnect between their daily actions and the core values they once embodied. Without conscious effort, leaders risk becoming detached from the very principles that once made them effective.

The higher up we go, the more we risk becoming disconnected from what originally made us great leaders. The pressure, expectations, and external demands can push us away from authenticity. This aligns with Daniel Goleman’s research on Emotional Intelligence that emphasises self-awareness as the foundation of sustainable leadership. If we’re not aware of our own ‘under the water’ elements, how can we truly appreciate those of the people we work with and lead?

Negative leadership experiences have also played a pivotal role in shaping my views. I’ve worked with and observed leaders who led by fear - delivering results, but only in the short term. These are the leaders who move on (or are moved on), leaving chaos in their wake. Some even mistake this turmoil as a sign of their own significance, rather than a failure of true leadership. But this is not leadership. True leadership is about lasting impact. The best leaders aren’t just remembered; they inspire others to carry forward aspects of their leadership style.

The Power of Social Awareness

Understanding what’s beneath the surface isn’t just important for self-awareness, it’s essential for how leaders engage with others. Miscommunication, conflict, and misunderstandings often stem from failing to recognise the hidden influences shaping behaviour. A team member’s reaction to feedback, their hesitation in decision-making, or their resistance to change may not just be about the situation at hand, it may be deeply rooted in their experiences, beliefs, or fears.

How Leaders Can Stay Aligned with Their Values

Leaders must take deliberate steps to maintain alignment with their values as they rise. Here’s how:

1. Regular Self-Reflection – Revisit your core values frequently. Ask yourself: Am I leading in a way that aligns with what I truly believe?

2. Seek Feedback – Encourage honest conversations with trusted peers or mentors who can highlight when you might be straying from your values.

3. Engage in Leadership Development – Participate in coaching or training that reinforces value-based leadership.

4. Practice Value-Based Decision-Making – Before making big decisions, pause and ask: Does this align with the kind of leader I want to be?

Coaching as a Tool for Deeper Self-Discovery

One of the most effective ways to explore what lies beneath the waterline is through coaching. Coaching provides a structured, reflective space where leaders can examine their values, motivations, and leadership identity with clarity. By working with a coach, leaders gain deeper self-awareness, challenge blind spots, and ensure their leadership approach remains aligned with their core principles. This investment in self-discovery leads to stronger, more authentic leadership.

Leadership that Lasts

Leadership is not just about what’s seen - it’s about understanding and navigating what’s unseen. The most effective leaders recognise that success isn’t just about results, it’s about how those results are achieved and the legacy left behind. When we explore our own iceberg and make the effort to understand others’, we unlock deeper connections, stronger teams, and leadership that stands the test of time.