Leading with Intention

Reflections on Manage Like A Boss

by KJ Tucker | November 2024

Attending the Manage Like a Boss (MLAB) workshop was a transformative experience. As a leader in the nonprofit sector, I’ve always valued collaboration, but having multiple nonprofits in the same room was a unique opportunity to foster connections and share insights. The energy in the room was electric; everyone came ready to learn, exchange ideas, and problem-solve. We explored how we could elevate each other, ultimately benefiting the communities we serve. It was refreshing to witness how the challenges we face, despite being in different sectors, share similar roots—and how solutions can come from working together.

One Hour into MLAB: A New Perspective

When I first walked into the room, I had certain expectations: I thought we’d share ideas, take notes, and maybe have some light discussion about leadership. But about an hour in, I realized MLAB was more than a typical leadership session—it was a deep dive into how we, as leaders, can transform our organizations from within. My expectations shifted as the workshop became less about individual success and more about collective leadership. It made me think about how to better integrate cross-functional collaboration not just within my team but across the entire nonprofit ecosystem.

Key Takeaways: Changing How I Lead

One of my biggest takeaways was that leadership is about fostering transparency and vulnerability. During the session, we discussed the importance of sharing not only our successes but our struggles as well. This type of openness helps to build trust and strengthens teams in ways that structured leadership alone can’t achieve. I’m also taking away the importance of breaking out of silos. It’s so easy to get caught up in the day-to-day operations of your own organization that you forget the wealth of knowledge available just outside your door. Moving forward, I’ll be leading differently by actively seeking out partnerships and collaborations that align with our mission. I’ll also focus on creating space for vulnerability within my team, making sure there’s room to discuss challenges openly, so we can address them as a collective. MLAB helped me realize that leadership is about more than directing—it’s about truly listening and facilitating growth at all levels.

The Power of CliftonStrengths: Supporting My Team

An additional learning moment came from reflecting on my strengths, particularly after taking the CliftonStrengths assessment. I’ve always understood the importance of knowing my own strengths, but MLAB helped me see how these strengths show up in my role as a supervisor. It was eye-opening to connect my strengths to the way I support my direct reports. Understanding my strengths allowed me to improve how I show up for my team, enabling me to be more intentional in providing the kind of guidance and support each person needs. I now use this awareness to tailor my leadership style, making sure that my strengths are leveraged not only to achieve outcomes but also to foster the growth and development of those around me.

Who Would Benefit from MLAB?

MLAB is for any leader who’s ready to challenge themselves and take their leadership to the
next level. It’s particularly useful for mission-driven organizations that are looking for ways to
collaborate more effectively and break out of operational silos. MLAB is ideal for leaders who want to move beyond managing day-to-day operations and start thinking more strategically about their organization’s long-term impact.

Leading with Intention

MLAB reminded me that leadership is not just about managing people—it’s about leading with intention, fostering collaboration, and staying grounded in your mission. As I move forward, I’ll take the lessons learned from MLAB to continue building a strong, connected team that’s focused on making meaningful change. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or new to managing teams, MLAB offers valuable insights that can elevate your approach and inspire you to lead like a boss. 

My Favorite Strength:
Developer

One of my favorite strengths as a leader is being a Developer. I genuinely enjoy seeing the potential in others and helping them grow into their fullest selves. This strength allows me to focus on the personal and professional development of my team, identifying opportunities to help them stretch their abilities and expand their impact. I believe that when people feel supported in their growth, they are more engaged, confident, and capable of achieving remarkable things. As a Developer, I use this strength to nurture talent and create a culture of growth, where everyone feels empowered to continuously evolve and contribute.

Meet KJ Tucker

KJ Tucker is the KSSN Director of People and Strategy. She has a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership and a Bachelor’s Degree in Public & Nonprofit Administration from Grand Valley State University. KJ has over 10 years of experience in managing cross-functional teams, developing strategic partnerships, and leading community-wide initiatives, and has a passion for community involvement and supporting the success of youth and young adults.  

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