Zach Mercurio is a researcher who specializes in purposeful leadership, mattering, meaningful work, and positive organizational psychology. He works with hundreds of organizations worldwide, and some of his clients include the U.S. Army, USA Wrestling, J.P. Morgan, Delta Air Lines, Marriott International, the government of Canada and the U.S. National Park Service. He also serves as one of motivational speaker, author and business consultant Simon Sinek's "optimist instructors."
When we think about what makes an impressive leader, we often color it in terms like inspiring, courageous, or even heroic. But research shows that, when asked about great leaders in their own lives, people don't talk about grand actions or noble qualities. More likely than not, people point out small interactions—moments—when a leader helped them feel seen or heard, illuminated gifts they didn't know they had or provided affirmation. Psychologists call this sense of significance mattering, and the best leaders have trained in and practice the skill of showing people their value.
Below, Zach shares five key insights from his new book, The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance.
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