Leadership Insights from Mister Rogers and Sesame Street

I grew up watching “Mister Rogers” and “Sesame Street.” It is remarkable to think that these shows debuted more than 55 years ago, yet these shows have had an enduring impact. Looking back, outside of my parents, I realize that the lessons of kindness, effective communication, and celebration of individuality imparted by these shows have become an integral part of my leadership style.

Both “Mister Rogers” and “Sesame Street” were ahead of their time, and there is a lot to learn as it relates to leadership.

Use Silence

Talking to children and adults isn’t so different.  Mr. Rogers was known to speak very slowly, sometimes painfully so.  This was by design, as he wanted the listener to hear the message truly. Communication is an art form; if you can’t communicate, you are effectively missing your audience. I use pregnant pauses to emphasize certain words or thoughts – leveraging silence to capture the audience’s attention 

I have been known to speak too quickly and at times, it has hampered the effectiveness of my message.  As a communicator, I’ve learned the importance of pausing, breathing, and speaking deliberately to ensure clarity in conveying my ideas.

Leading with Kindness

“Mister Rogers” and “Sesame Street” alike emphasized the significance of kindness. This often overlooked attribute holds an enduring value. Our society is marked by polarization and an increased lack of kindness in our interactions. I’ve delved into the realm of emotional intelligence in business, and kindness costs us nothing. The quality of kindness not only enhances inclusive leadership but also nurtures constructive relationships and interactions.

Celebrate the Person in Front of You

Everyone is special. I don’t mean in the sense they are a unique snowflake deserving of a participation trophy. It’s that the person in front of you embodies unique talents. As a leader, what are you doing to leverage and celebrate their gifts? As a leader, if you are trying to put a square peg in a circular hole, you’ve missed the mark. Take the time to speak to the person and understand their motivations as well as their areas for growth – leadership entails recognizing and celebrating these gifts. Rather than forcing individuals into molds that don’t align, successful leaders harness their potential. To honor those around us, we must understand their motivations, strengths, and areas for growth, enabling them to contribute their best. 

Precision in Communication

Effective communication hinges on precision, thorough intention, and ensuring that your words land as intended. When communicating, do so with purpose, defined points, and a call to action — what do you want your audience to know, feel, or do? 

The Power of Storytelling

“Sesame Street” and “Mister Rogers” used stories to illustrate their points to engage with their audience deeply.  In leadership, it’s the stories we share that resonate with people. Data of course is important, but it can be hard to remember or interpret.  The story, however, stays with you, and above all you remember the story of the data, not the other way around.

Embracing Simplicity

“Mister Rogers” and “Sesame” Street were never overcomplicated and adhered to the approachable. Sometimes, we overcomplicate the message we want to convey, leading to confusion and lack of understanding. Simple is often better, especially when it comes to communication. Mr. Rogers and Sesame Street taught us that breaking down complex topics into simpler terms can make it easier for people to understand and connect with the message. As a leader, it’s essential to keep the message simple and relatable for your audience.

Cultivating Empathy

“Mister Rogers” and “Sesame Street” were known for their empathetic approach. They encouraged viewers to put themselves in others’ shoes, understand their perspectives, and act with kindness and compassion. As a leader, empathy is crucial in building relationships with your team members and understanding their needs and motivations.

Embracing Patience 

Mr. Rogers was known for his patience, never rushing through a message or an interaction. This patience allowed him to connect with his audience on a deeper level and make them feel seen and heard. As a leader, patience is valuable in building trust and rapport with your team members.