How to maximise personal impact: mastering self-leadership and influence

In today’s fast-paced and constantly evolving business landscape, strong leadership isn’t just about managing teams, it's about inspiring them. At Newcastle University Business School, the MBA is not just a qualification; it's a transformational journey designed to equip leaders with the tools, mindset, and vision to navigate complex challenges and drive meaningful change.

During this panel discussion hosted by MBA Programme Director Dr Lucy Hatt, distinguished members of the MBA Advisory Panel shared invaluable insights from their real-world experience leading diverse, cross-cultural teams across sectors and continents. The Advisory Board members included:

Whether you're an existing Newcastle University MBA offer holder, an applicant considering your options or just weighing up your next move, these lessons are essential reading for any developing leader.

1. Self-awareness is the foundation of great leadership

Understanding yourself is the first step to effectively leading others.

The panel emphasised that leadership starts from within. Emotional intelligence, particularly self-awareness and empathy are a recurring theme in the Newcastle University MBA. Leaders who understand their own values, communication style, and blind spots are better equipped to connect with and influence others. This isn’t just theoretical, the MBA’s leadership modules provide structured opportunities to reflect, receive feedback, and grow.

Takeaway: Schedule regular self-check-ins and actively seek feedback. The most impactful leaders are those who continuously evolve. Recognise “other lives”, it’s unlikely you understand everything that’s going on in the lives of others, so take time to understand if they look or behave out of sorts.

2. Culture difference is not an obstacle — it’s an advantage

Operating across borders, panel members stressed the importance of embracing cultural diversity, not merely managing it. In a globalised workforce, understanding different cultural norms and communication styles enhances collaboration and innovation.

The Newcastle University MBA prepares leaders to thrive in this context through live projects, international partnerships, and an emphasis on inclusive leadership practices.

Two MBA students stand in front of a green wall and projected screen, presenting to an audience during a group project session at Newcastle University Business School.

Takeaway: Curiosity and cultural humility open doors. Always seek to understand before seeking to be understood. The culturally diverse cohort on the Newcastle University MBA offers unparalleled opportunities to develop your cultural intelligence

3. Leading through change requires clarity and courage

Several panellists shared stories of leading teams through periods of uncertainty, mergers, restructures, digital transformation. The common thread? Clarity of vision, consistent communication, and the courage to make tough calls.

Students on the Newcastle University MBA are challenged to develop these capabilities through strategic leadership challenges, preparing them to lead with confidence when stakes are high.

Takeaway: In times of change, overcommunicate. People follow leaders who offer direction and reassurance. Vulnerability can be a strength, have the courage to ask for help and be reliable in delivery.

4. Build relationships before you need them

Your network is not just who you know. It’s who knows you — and trusts you.

Strong professional relationships are key to effective leadership. The Newcastle University MBA fosters a collaborative environment where lifelong networks are built. From peer projects to mentoring from the advisory panel, the emphasis is on connection, trust, and shared learning.

Two students converse at a networking event. One, with a laptop open, listens attentively, while the other gestures as he speaks. A poster of wind turbines at sunset and a small plant are visible.

Takeaway: Invest time in relationships now. They become your greatest asset in moments of challenge or opportunity. Leaders are people that have to make a lot of decisions; think how you can make the decisions of your more senior leaders easier for them and it won’t go unnoticed.

Why Newcastle?

This session perfectly captured the spirit of the Newcastle University MBA, reflective, globally oriented, and unapologetically practical. As Dr Lucy Hatt explained, the programme is designed to support each student’s individual leadership journey while equipping them with universally relevant capabilities.

Whether you’re holding an offer or still exploring your options, this is your chance to step into a transformative experience that reshapes how you think, lead, and create impact.

Register your interest for our next Newcastle University MBA taster session here. A member of the team will then get in touch.

See the forthcoming programme of events at Newcastle University Business School here.