How I Developed My Own Style in Facilitation and Leadership
Are you a cover artist, or the original?'
In Vegas, you can find just about every type of entertainment—including a Michael Jackson impersonator.
I admit, I was a bit skeptical that he could even come CLOSE to impersonating MJ.
But wow, oh my goodness, he nailed it. And I haven't stopped playing MJ on Spotify since
It also got me reflecting on my growth: Moving from a cover artist, to being the original. It's a journey I'm still on.
When I first stepped into leadership, I was definitely more of a cover artist.
I leaned on popular leadership models, adapted successful strategies I’d observed, and mirrored approaches from leaders I admired.
I did the same with my facilitation work, trying to "mirror" what great facilitators did in a workshop space.
But over time, I began developing my own style.
Now, whether I’m leading teams, developing my Red Carpet Experiences, or facilitating strategy sessions, the ideas, methods, and values guiding them are distinctly my own.
Here are three ways to bridge that gap from cover artist to original:
1. Experiment with your original ideas
Start small by integrating your unique perspectives or methods into known approaches. Share your personal stories and anecdotes, and weave them into lessons learnt. For instance, I created my own SPARK model in my book The 2-Hour Workshop Blueprint to offer something distinct.
2. Go on a Listening Tour
Often, your best ideas come from understanding what’s missing.
What’s one thing you can offer your team that no one else can, or describe in a way that gets people to wake up and pay attention?
Notice when you feel energised by a response or hear, “Oh, I’ve never heard it explained that way.” That’s your originality taking shape.
3. Embrace the time it takes (I know, it’s the hardest!)
Becoming an “original” is a journey—one that’s built through experience, iteration, and a willingness to stand behind your unique voice.
If you’re not sure what that voice is yet, try experimenting in real-time, even just posting on LinkedIn is a great start.
So, are you a cover artist, or the original? Or somewhere in between?
PS: MJ fans—what’s your go-to song?
