Successful leaders embody three traits: They're innovative thinkers, they lean into their strengths, and they’re masterful storytellers. That’s according to T-Mobile CEO Mike Sievert, who took to the stage at The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania’s May commencement to share leadership and career lessons gathered over his 12 years at the telecom giant.
Starting with what makes for an effective manager, Sievert said the term itself is a misnomer. “The fallacy of management is the name. Managers aren’t here to manage things—at our best, we are here to change things.” Strong supervisors are change agents, able to challenge the status quo and switch strategies when things aren’t panning out. They also have an inventive, growth mindset, are willing to push boundaries, and can influence their teams to do the same. “Good leaders are here to bend the curve, not just manage it,” Sievert said.
