Your greatest strengths as a leader may be holding you back

During the past 25 years, I’ve helped leaders build their executive presence. I’ve seen how a strength that helped someone succeed can begin working against them when they rely on it too much. Executive presence is a set of behaviors, and even positive behaviors can lose their value when used too much or at the wrong time. For example, a behavior you see as collaborative may come across as indecisive when taken too far. Humility can make your contributions less visible. Thoroughness can make you seem less concise and clear. Here are seven strengths that can become weaknesses when taken too far and how to recognize when these strengths start working against you. 1. RESPECT CAN BECOME DEFERENCE Some leaders I coach are assertive with peers but much more deferential when senior executives are present. When challenged, they give in too quickly, withhold contrary views, or wait for the more powerful person to share an opinion first. They believe they are showing respect. Senior leaders need your perspective and expertise, especially when you see something differently. You can respectfully challenge their position by saying, “I see the issue differently. Here is why.” 2. CONFIDENCE CAN …