Interview: How Kevin Lobo Leads With Strengths
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About the Leader
Kevin Lobo
Chair and CEO, Stryker
- Individualization®
- Learner®
- Achiever®
- Activator®
- Positivity®
“Strengths, to me, is the most powerful thing I’ve done in my career.'”
Rather than using one communication style with everyone, Lobo adjusts his style based on the behavior of the person he’s interacting with. “And I do that naturally, without even thinking,” he says.
Lobo has the natural urge to start a large number of projects. However, knowing that too many simultaneous projects can cause chaos, he relies on his team to help him slow down and stay focused.
Using his curiosity to help others, Lobo regularly asks leaders in his organization questions that sharpen their thinking and help them achieve their goals.
As he’s matured in his Achiever strength, Lobo has learned that a to-do list full of minor items can lead to meaningless or ineffectual work. As CEO, his evaluation of his work is much more robust, now being based on who he’s spending time with and inspiring, setting the cultural tone, and handling complex matters.
Even in the darkest times, Lobo has confidence that something good can emerge. Positivity, he says, inspires people, and this strength plays a major role in his leadership.