In this episode of the Connected Leadership Bytes, Andy Lopata revisits his interviews with Todd Cherches, an academic from New York who specialises in visual leadership. They discuss the concept of visual leadership, exploring how it goes beyond simply incorporating pictures into presentations. Cherches argues that visual leadership is about how we see the world and how that shapes our vision as leaders. He emphasises the importance of diversity and inclusion in shaping our vision, highlighting that different perspectives can lead to more innovative solutions.

Andy and Todd look at the power of metaphors, storytelling, visual imagery and models as tools for effective communication and engagement. Todd provides practical advice on how to incorporate visual elements like drawings and models, even for those who consider themselves artistically challenged.

Humor in leadership can be a powerful tool for engaging and connecting with people. Todd shares insights on how to find humor in everyday life and use it effectively in communication.

Todd also touches upon the three V’s – visibility, voice, and value – as key elements for building strong professional Relationships. He emphasises the importance of being seen, heard, and recognised for making a contribution, even for introverts. He encourages listeners to take baby steps towards developing their voice and contributing to conversations.

Key Takeaways:

1.     Visual leadership is more than just pictures: It involves how we see the world and how that shapes our vision as leaders.

2.     Diversity and inclusion are crucial for vision: Different perspectives lead to more innovative solutions.

3.     Metaphors, storytelling, visual imagery and models are powerful tools for communication and engagement.

4.     Humor can be a powerful tool for connecting with people.

5.     Learning from fiction and literature can offer valuable leadership lessons.

6.     Being seen, heard, and recognised for making a contribution is essential for building strong relationships.

Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | YouTube

Connect with Todd Cherches: Website |LinkedIn  

Listen to the full episode of this podcast

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Andy Lopata Author, Podcast Host and Speaker on Professional Relationships Strategy

Andy Lopata is a specialist speaker on professional relationships, mentoring, networking, and social media strategy. He is a firm believer that professional relationships underpin our success in business, our roles, and our careers. The right relationships with the right people can lead to new business opportunities, investment, collaborative working, innovation, and career progress. We just need to be comfortable approaching those relationships strategically, without making people feel ‘networked’ by us.

Andy has worked in the field of networking and professional relationships for 25 years, working with global giants such as Paypal, GSK, AstraZeneca, Wella, HSBC, Wembley Stadium, the BBC, and the Prime Minister’s Office of the UAE, among many others during that time. He has also worked with leading universities including NYU, Duke University, and Oxford University’s Said Business School.

A regular blogger for Psychology Today, Andy has been quoted in The Sunday Times, The Financial Times, and The Guardian, as well as many other national and regional newspapers and magazines worldwide. He has written or co-authored six books on networking and professional relationships, with his sixth book, "The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring," being published in Spring 2024. He is also the host of The Connected Leadership Podcast and has interviewed globally recognized names in business, academia, sports, and entertainment for the show.

Andy has been inducted into the PSAE Hall of Fame – the Professional Speaking Association Award of Excellence, which was held by only 21 other speakers at the time it was presented. He is a Fellow and a former President of the Fellows’ Community of the Professional Speaking Association (PSA), a Fellow of the Learning and Performance Institute (LPI), and a Member of the Association of Business Mentors and the Meetings Industry Association.