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New Manager Rule #10: Walk the Walk, Smile the Smile

Kevin B. Leigh
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New Manager Rule #10: Walk the Walk, Smile the Smile


“Smile, it is the key that fits the lock of everybody’s heart.”

Now, you might be wondering, “Dad, who’s this D’Angelo guy, and why should I care what he says about smiling?” Well, let me enlighten you. D’Angelo isn’t just some random quote machine – he’s a thought leader in education and personal development who’s made a career out of inspiring people to reach their potential.

D’Angelo founded The Collegiate Empowerment Company and has authored several books on personal growth and leadership, including “The College Blue Book” and “The Inspiration Book Series.” He’s spent years studying what makes people tick and how to bring out the best in them. In other words, he knows a thing or two about influence and connection – key skills for any leader.

When D’Angelo talks about smiling being the key to everybody’s heart, he’s not just spouting feel-good nonsense. He’s tapping into a fundamental truth about human interaction. A smile is a universal language, a tool that can break down barriers and open doors faster than you can say “synergy.”

But here’s the kicker – D’Angelo’s insight goes beyond just smiling. It’s about the whole package of how you present yourself. Your smile, your walk, your energy – they’re all part of the nonverbal communication that can make or break your effectiveness as a leader.

So when we combine D’Angelo’s wisdom about the power of a smile with the art of walking confidently and moving with purpose, we’re creating a trifecta of leadership presence. Let’s break it down:

Walk confidently.

Strut like you own the place, even though you’re just renting. But seriously, when you move through the office, people are watching, so show them you are their leader.

Always smile.

Perfect the warm smile and the “glad to see you” laugh.

Let this sink in: your walk and your smile are your personal billboard, advertising “Leadership: Now Playing at a Cubicle Near You!”

First, let’s talk about that walk. Imagine you’re on a catwalk, but instead of showcasing the latest fashion, you’re modeling confidence, purpose, and “I’ve got this” energy. Stand tall (remember Rule 1?), shoulders back, and move with intention.

Move fast:

When you move through the office, move like you have a purpose. You’re not just walking; you’re on a mission. Every step should say, “I’m on my way to do important leader stuff.” Even if you’re just heading to the break room to figure out who keeps stealing your lunch (Pro tip: it’s probably Dave from Accounting).

But here’s the catch – you’re not actually on a runway, and you’re not running from zombies either. So find that sweet spot between “confident stride” and “I’m late for my spacecraft launch.” We’re aiming for purposeful, not panicked. Think of it as power-walking with style. You want people to see you and think, “Wow, they must have something important to do,” not “Who set the building on fire?”

Moving with purpose does a few things:

1. It shows you value time – yours and others’.

2. It creates an energy that’s contagious. (The good kind of contagious, not the “call the CDC” kind.)

3. It makes you look decisive and action-oriented.

Just know, fast doesn’t mean reckless. We don’t want you leaving a trail of knocked-over interns and spilled coffee in your wake. It’s all about that controlled urgency.

Smile the Smile

Now, onto that smile. Your smile is like your secret weapon. It’s the WD-40 of human interactions – it makes everything run smoother. But we’re not talking about a permanent, plasticky grin that makes people wonder if you’re secretly a robot sent from the future to infiltrate middle management. No, we’re after the warm, genuine smile that says, “I’m approachable, I’m engaged, and I definitely didn’t just forget your name.”

Perfect that “glad to see you” laugh, too. It’s like the cherry on top of your friendly sundae. Just make sure it’s sincere. Nothing worse than a fake laugh – it’s like non-alcoholic beer. What’s the point?

Combined Presence:

Combine these elements, and you’ve got a powerful presence. You’re walking through the office like you’re on a mission (which you are – the mission of great leadership), and you’re greeting people with a warm smile and a genuine laugh. It’s like you’re the host of the world’s best party, and the party is your team’s success.

Here’s a Pro Tip:

Practice your power walk, purposeful pace, and smile combo at home. Strut from room to room, moving quickly but smoothly, smiling and nodding at the furniture. The couch won’t care, but you’ll build muscle memory. Just don’t do the “glad to see you” laugh at the refrigerator. That’s a step too far, even for method acting.

The key, is consistency. Don’t save your confident walk, purposeful movement, and winning smile for big meetings or when the CEO is around. Make it your default setting. Because leadership isn’t a sometimes thing – it’s an all-the-time thing.

Let this sink in: you’re not just walking to a destination; you’re moving purposefully towards your future as a great leader. And that smile? It’s not just a facial expression; it’s an invitation for others to join you on that journey. So walk tall, move fast, smile bright, and lead on, my son. Just watch out for that conference room table – confidence and purpose are great, but spatial awareness is crucial too. The last thing you want is to power-walk into a glass door. Trust me, no amount of smiling can recover from that gracefully.

New Manager Rule 9: Look Your Best

Kevin B. Leigh
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New Manager Rule 9: Look Your Best

“Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak.”

Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Kevin, are you seriously quoting a fashion stylist in a leadership book?” Yes, yes I am. And not just any stylist, but Rachel Zoe – the woman who turned celebrity styling into an empire and herself into a brand.

Let me break it down for you. Rachel Zoe started as a fashion stylist for celebrities, but she didn’t stop there. She leveraged her eye for style into a multimillion-dollar business, including a clothing line, books, and even a TV show. She’s the CEO of her own company, for crying out loud. If that’s not leadership material, I don’t know what is.

Zoe understood something crucial: in the worlds of both fashion and business, perception often shapes reality. She knew that what you wear isn’t just about clothes; it’s about the message you’re sending. And in the corporate jungle, your outfit is your plumage. It’s how you signal to the other peacocks that you’re not to be trifled with.

Think about it. When Zoe styles a celebrity for the red carpet, she’s not just picking out a pretty dress. She’s crafting an image, telling a story, influencing how that person is perceived by millions. Sound familiar? That’s exactly what you’re doing as a leader, minus the paparazzi (usually).

So when Rachel Zoe talks about style being a way to communicate without words, she’s not just talking about fashion. She’s talking about the power of non-verbal communication – a skill that’s crucial in leadership. Your appearance is making statements about your competence, your attention to detail, and your respect for others and yourself, all before you’ve said a single word in that board meeting.

In essence, Rachel Zoe isn’t just a fashion stylist. She’s a master of visual communication and personal branding – skills that are invaluable in the business world. So yes, I’m quoting her in a leadership book. Because sometimes, the best leadership lessons come from unexpected places. Like the world of haute couture. Who knew?

Look your best.

“Best” is relative. Aim for “put together,” not “runway model.” No matter what the style in the office, wear the upgraded version. Also, find a brand that no one else is wearing to differentiate yourself. For example, I wear Mark Wahlberg’s brand, Municipal. Which makes people think I work for the government, LOL,  but it also sets me apart from everyone else.

Let this sink in: your appearance is like your personal billboard. It’s advertising. Being their Leader 24/7. So make sure it’s not broadcasting “The Guy Who Just Rolled Out of Bed”.

Now, I’m not saying you need to show up to the office looking like you’re about to walk the red carpet (unless you work in Hollywood, in which case, why are you reading this? Go schmooze with celebrities or something). The goal here is “put together,” not “trying too hard.”

Think of it as the corporate version of “dress for the job you want, not the job you have.” If everyone’s wearing jeans and a t-shirt, go for nice jeans and a collared shirt. If it’s business casual, kick it up a notch with a blazer. It’s like you’re playing fashion leapfrog, always staying one jump ahead.

But here’s the real secret sauce: find your signature style. Something that sets you apart without screaming “look at me!” It’s like being the lead singer of a band – you want to stand out, but still be part of the group.

Take my Municipal gear, for instance. It’s like I’m saying, “I’m comfortable, I’m stylish, and I might just have to dash off to run a covert government operation at any moment.” Okay, maybe not that last part, but you get the idea. It’s unique, it’s me, and it makes people do a double-take (in a good way).

Now, a word of caution: don’t go too wild. We’re aiming for “stylish leader,” not “escaped circus performer.” Unless you’re actually leading a circus, in which case, carry on with the sequins and top hat.

And please, for the love of all that is holy in the fashion world, make sure your clothes fit properly. Nothing says “I’m not quite ready for that promotion” like pants that look like they’re trying to escape your ankles or a shirt that’s holding on for dear life every time you breathe.

Here’s a Pro Tip:

Invest in a good tailor. It’s like having a secret weapon in your closet. They can make an off-the-rack suit look custom-made, and trust me, people notice. It’s the difference between looking like you’re wearing the outfit and the outfit wearing you.

The bottom line, kiddo, is this: your appearance is part of your leadership toolkit. Use it wisely. Dress like the leader you are (or want to be), find your signature style, and always, always make sure your socks match. Unless mismatched socks become your thing, in which case, own it. Leadership is about confidence, after all.

Here’s something to chew on: no matter how good you look, it’s your actions and decisions that really matter. But hey, if you can lead effectively and look sharp doing it? That’s what we call a win-win.

New Manager Rule #8: The Perfect Handshake

Kevin B. Leigh
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New Manager Rule #8: The Perfect Handshake

“A handshake is like a corporate Rorschach test – what they feel says more about you than what they see.”

Yes, I just quoted myself. When you write a blog, you get to do that. It’s one of the perks of authorship, along with carpal tunnel and an unhealthy attachment to your coffee pot.

But let’s break this down, shall we? A handshake is more than just a greeting; it’s a split-second personality test. In that brief moment of palm-to-palm contact, you’re not just saying hello – you’re making a statement about who you are as a leader. Are you firm and confident? Weak and uncertain? Or are you that guy who seems to be auditioning for a arm-wrestling tournament? Choose wisely, because in the corporate world, your handshake speaks volumes before you’ve uttered a single word.

Shake hands firmly.

Aim for confident professional, not “I’m crushing your metacarpals.” My dad used to pull them in and make it a two-handed shake, and he was Ford Motor Company’s Salesman of the year for 8 years, so what could go wrong?

Now, let me tell you about my father. Picture this: a man in a three-piece suit, gold chain dancing across his vest, pocket watch at the ready, and an Irish brogue so thick you could spread it on toast. This man was a handshaking virtuoso. He didn’t just shake hands; he conducted a symphony of palm-to-palm perfection.

His signature move was the two-handed shake. It was like he was saying, “I’m not just greeting you; I’m gifting you a tiny moment of my award-winning charm.” And let me tell you, it worked. Ford Motor Company doesn’t hand out “Salesman of the Year” awards for mediocre handshakes and lukewarm personalities.

But here’s the thing: you’re not selling cars in the 1980s (thank goodness, those lapels were a crime against fashion). You’re leading a team in the 21st century. So, let’s update Grandpa’s technique for the modern era.

First, the grip. You want firm, not bone-crushing. We’re aiming for “confident professional,” not “secret arm-wrestling champion.” Your handshake should say, “I’m competent and trustworthy,” not “I’m overcompensating for something.”

Duration is key. Too short, and it’s like you can’t wait to get away. Too long, and it gets weird. Aim for 2-3 seconds. It’s like a text message for your hands – get your message across quickly and move on.

The Two Handed Shake

Now, about that two-handed shake. Your grandpa was onto something big here. In the right situation, this move can be a game-changer. It’s like the secret sauce of handshakes, and when used correctly, it can create an instant connection.

The two-handed shake is perfect for those moments when you want to convey warmth, sincerity, and a deeper level of engagement. Use it when you’re:

1. Offering heartfelt congratulations

2. Expressing genuine gratitude

3. Meeting a highly respected individual

4. Reconnecting with an old friend or valued colleague

5. Sealing an important deal

When you employ the two-handed shake, you’re not just greeting someone; you’re creating a moment. It’s like you’re saying, “This interaction is special, and I want you to feel that.” It’s a powerful tool in your leadership arsenal. Just remember, with great power comes great responsibility. Use it wisely, and you’ll leave a lasting impression that would make Grandpa Noel proud.

Handshake and Eye Contact.

Eye contact during the handshake is crucial. Lock eyes like you’re trying to win a staring contest, but, you know, in a friendly way. It says, “I see you, I acknowledge you, and no, I’m not looking at the hair in their nose.”

And for the love of all that is holy in the business world, make sure your hands are dry. Nothing kills a first impression faster than a clammy handshake. It’s like greeting someone with a wet fish. Keep a handkerchief in your pocket if you need to. It’s not just an accessory; it’s hand-sweat insurance.

Here’s a Dad Pro Tip: Practice your handshake with a trusted friend or a very patient family member. Get feedback. If they start wearing protective gloves around you, you might be shaking too hard. If they ask if you’re feeling okay, you might need to firm it up. Find that Goldilocks zone – not too hard, not too soft, just right.

Let this sink in, a good handshake is like a good leader: firm, engaging, and leaves people feeling good about the interaction. Master this, and you’ll be well on your way to making first impressions that last. Who knows? Maybe one day you’ll be adding your own flair to it. Just maybe leave the pocket watch at home. We’re not quite ready for that level of retro cool… yet.

New Manager Rule #7: Square Up Your Body

Kevin B. Leigh
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New Manager Rule #7: Square Up Your Body

“To effectively communicate, we must realize that we are all different in the way we perceive the world and use this understanding as a guide to our communication with others.”

Tony Robbins, the human equivalent of a double espresso shot, nails it with this quote. In his book “Unlimited Power,” Robbins dives deep into the art of communication and personal achievement. He might as well have titled a chapter “Square Up or Shut Up” (but I guess his publishers thought that was a bit too on the nose).

Robbins talks about “modeling” – the art of adopting the behaviors of successful people. Well, one behavior you should model is facing people head-on. It’s not just about eye contact; it’s about full-body engagement. Think of it as “whole-body listening” – it’s like regular listening, but with more muscles involved.

Square up on the person you’re talking to.

Unless they have spinach in their teeth. Then it’s a judgment call. Turn your body to square up on the person you are talking to. That little piece of advice changed their opinion of you instantly, just watch Tim Cook from Apple.

Now, Robbins would probably say that squaring up is part of building rapport – that almost magical connection that makes people think, “Hey, this person gets me!” It’s like you’re saying, “I’m not just hearing your words, I’m absorbing them with my entire being.” Okay, that might be a bit much, but you get the idea.

In “Unlimited Power,” Robbins emphasizes the importance of congruence in communication – making sure your words, tone, and body language all match up. Well, squaring up is congruence in action. Your body is quite literally lining up with your intention to listen and engage.

Alright, listen up. This isn’t about preparing for a boxing match (although in some meetings, you might wish it was). Squaring up is about giving someone your full attention, and I mean full. We’re talking body, mind, and soul… okay, maybe just body and mind. Let’s not get too new-agey here, even if Tony would approve..

When you square up to someone, you’re saying, “You have my undivided attention, and I’m not planning my escape route.” It’s like pointing your personal satellite dish directly at them, ready to receive all their communication signals, both verbal and non-verbal.

Think of it this way: your body is like a giant arrow, and where it points is where your attention is. If you’re turned sideways or at an angle, you’re basically telling the person, “I’m kinda listening, but I’m also ready to bolt at any second.” Not exactly the message of a confident leader, is it?

Now, I mentioned Tim Cook, and let me tell you, that man could teach a master class in squaring up. Watch him in interviews or presentations. He doesn’t just face people; he engages his entire body in the conversation. It’s like he’s saying, “I’m here, I’m listening, and no, I won’t tell you about the next iPhone.”

But here’s the catch: don’t overdo it. We’re aiming for “attentive leader,” not “creepy robot that follows you with its eyes.” If you’re in a group setting, you can’t square up to everyone unless you’re some sort of rotisserie leader (which, let’s face it, sounds delicious but impractical). Instead, pivot your body to face whoever’s speaking at the moment. It’s like you’re a human compass, and true north is whoever has the floor.

And about that spinach-in-teeth situation? Well, sometimes being a good leader means making the tough calls. If you can subtly signal them about their leafy problem, go for it. If not, square up and pretend you’re fascinated by their left eyebrow. Leadership is all about adaptability, after all.

Here’s a Pro Tip:

Practice your squaring up skills at home. Face the TV squarely when watching the news, square up to the fridge when deciding on a snack, square up to the dog when asking who’s a good boy. Just don’t square up to mom when she’s asking why you haven’t called. That’s a conversation you might want to approach at an angle.

In the game of leadership, being square is actually cool. It shows you’re engaged, attentive, and definitely not checking your phone under the table. So square those shoulders, face that conversation partner, and show them you mean business. Just, you know, in a friendly, non-confrontational way. We’re squaring up, not squaring off.

∗ Get the book Unlimited Power here: https://amzn.to/4eGuHEq

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