Connection beats control, always.
I used to think international leadership was about logistics, time zones, operations, and coordination.
But what really matters is trust.
Scaling operations means nothing if you’re not also scaling relationships.
Here are 3 lessons I’ve learned the hard way:
•Cultural understanding changes everything
What works in one country might fail in another. When you adapt to local norms, trust follows.
•Clarity beats complexity
Forget over-engineered playbooks. Simple, consistent communication is what actually keeps teams aligned.
•Local leaders unlock real momentum
You can’t lead everything from afar. Back your people on the ground; they have the insight that moves things forward.
So here’s my question:
Are we thinking broadly enough as leaders?
Are we really embracing the full range of perspectives global teams bring?
Leadership across borders isn’t just about coordination.
It’s about shared purpose across cultures, countries, and time zones.
What’s a lesson you’ve learned the hard way when leading internationally? – Ali Aydan
Ali Aydan: Leading global teams?
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