Earlier this month, I had the privilege of delivering a keynote to an emerging leader cohort.

It was a group of talented individuals who had been hand-picked by their organisation to explore leadership and step into bigger responsibilities. It’s not a cohort I get to work with often, so I was curious to understand their experience – what works for them, what doesn’t, and how leadership feels from where they sit.

One theme that emerged throughout our discussion and gained quite a bit of traction once it was raised, was that many in the group turn to their AI chatbots for direction, guidance, and support.

Yep, they shared that they often get more support from AI than they do from their leaders.

To be clear, the group weren’t blaming or unfairly condemning their leaders. Most were quick to add that it wasn’t that their leaders didn’t care. The issue was time. Their leaders are busy, stretched, and juggling a lot. As a result, these emerging leaders didn’t always feel they had the space or courage to ask for what they needed.

So instead, they turned to something that felt accessible, responsive, and available when they needed it.

That insight led me to ask a follow-up question:

What’s one thing you could bravely ask your leader to do so you get more of the guidance and support you’re looking for?

And,

What’s one thing your leader could do differently for you?

The answer was simple:

“When we do meet, don’t just ask where the project is at. Ask what I need.”

Not an update.

Not a status report.

Just a moment to name what support, clarity, or perspective would be helpful.

These driven and committed individuals weren’t looking to be rescued. They fully recognised their role in owning their development, taking initiative, and finding solutions – they just wanted the opportunity to be heard and supported in the moments that matter.

And I’m sure you’d agree that there’s something powerful about having a leader who pauses, checks in, and creates space for a conversation that goes beyond tasks and timelines. A leader who asks, “What do you need from me right now?” and is genuinely open to the answer.

So, if you’re a leader or you influence people in leadership roles, it might be worth applying a little more of this.

And if you know emerging leaders, it may also be helpful to remind them that asking for what they need is part of leadership, too.

I trust this has been helpful in some shape or form.

Until next week, be well and lead well.

Kylie