Alan Gellman is the CEO and founder of Convivo Leadership, where he serves as an executive coach focused on helping leaders and their teams achieve greater success. His work primarily involves C-level executives and senior leaders across various industries, including Fortune 50 companies and startups. With a 30-year career in marketing and general management across sectors like financial services, insurance, healthcare, and consumer packaged goods, Alan brings a wealth of experience to his coaching practice. Alan is passionate about enhancing leadership impact, interpersonal relationships, communication skills, and personal growth, particularly in the area of executive presence and influence.
For leaders, especially those in the C-suite, influence is crucial. While technical skills have likely helped your rise, your ability to influence others—whether peers, board members, or direct reports—will determine your success moving forward. Alan’s approach emphasizes that influence is not merely about exerting power; it’s about clarity of intention, strategic execution, and creating impact at scale. Influence involves both giving and receiving—it’s a dynamic exchange that differs fundamentally from power, which is about motivating rather than forcing others.
In the C-suite, influence becomes even more critical. Alan advises leaders to be strategic about their definition of success, the alliances they need, and the goals they must achieve. Identifying your Circle of Influence, understanding their agendas, and fostering relationships built on trust and emotional intelligence are key to navigating complex organizational landscapes. Alan also emphasizes the importance of strategic patience, radical candor, and professional prickliness as tools for effective leadership.
By understanding your own temperament, avoiding rigid truths, and recognizing alternative approaches, you can overcome obstacles and build a safety net that enables you to take necessary risks with courage. Alan Gellman’s insights offer a practical guide for leaders striving to succeed in an increasingly complex environment, helping them create lasting impact for themselves and their organizations.
Timestamps:
