Elon Musk the much-needed leader?
The answer may vary depending on whether you are
- His fan
- Want to be a CEO like him
- Not that fond of his leadership style
THE BACKGROUND
But what is crucial is that we all know him. Elon Musk has always been in the news be it for the right reasons or not. People have their own perceptions and views about him. For some, he is the most ideal leader whereas for others he is someone who could be better in different areas. Somehow, he is always in the centre of the internet’s attention.
Let’s observe and examine the man who enjoys being eccentric. Giving a bit of background he is one of the few world leaders who not only loves to start his own organisation but also owns other organisations. Currently, he has 5 organisations that he is managing: Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink, The Boring Company, and the newly acquired Twitter.
BODY LANGUAGE - THEN AND NOW
Musk is a confident leader who is very sure of what he wants which is also one of the reasons why sometimes employees or in general people find him not that likeable. Every leader evolves over time, so has Elon Musk.
The Chief Twit or Musk has worked on himself and evolved a lot in terms of his body language. There are changes in terms of his gestures and voice as well. He has started taking more pauses; his gestures are now more strategic and not very dramatic. You can actually see the toil of being always in the limelight on Musk’s well-being. As he is carefully observed and monitored in his every action. Not an easy role for him.
TEAM CULTURE
As a leader not always, you could be appreciated. Elon is no different; he has many times been condemned for being inconsiderate toward employees’ well-being. Be it working hours or firing people.
I am sure you have seen these images of the employees before and after Elon Musk took over Twitter. What can you observe in terms of their body language? Where in these two images do employees look comfortable or happy? Does that tell anything about the organisation’s culture?
As a new leader here, Musk is trying to connect with his employees. He is maintaining good eye contact. Observe how he is using palms up which indicates in terms of body language that want the other person to trust him. He is effectively trying to connect with his new team. Let’s move to the second image, what can you observe? That’s how I end up asking even while I am facilitating, do make a list of observations before proceeding further.
Done, here obviously again Musk is using some effective gestures. More so could you observe the reactions of the employees? Don’t tell me you didn’t observe them. As a practice, observe everything and anything that is ahead. Coming back, look at the different reactions that employees are giving him. Do they look comfortable? No. Why? As they are not sure just like Musk what the future holds for them. What would be the changes, how would that impact them and so on? Their body language is closed and they are trying to comfort themselves.
TO CONCLUDE
Chief Twit as a leader is still evolving. There are numerous changes that have taken place that have shaped his leadership style. Leading to create changes and getting the best of the organisation that he gets a part of. Let’s wait and watch the wonders of Elon Musk. Why do you think we need to observe world leaders or one’s role models? As that helps us to know what their body language is like and how they tweak their body language depending on the situation or people. This will help you to understand how people tweak body language and how can you tweak your body language as well
You as a leader can benefit a lot from understanding and observing body language. For instance you would be able to know how comfortable your team members are in approaching you or the kind of rapport they share or how to tweak your body language depending on their reactions.
Why do you think observing body language is crucial? You come to know what the person is thinking or feeling. You also know whether they are comfortable in the environment they are exposed to. Also, how people perceive change and adapt to the same. Do you have points to add onto do let me know or if you wish to understand some other leader’s body language
HOW WE CAN HELP
Enhance your teaching impact with our tailored programs focused on improving non-verbal communication. Learn to build stronger connections with students, manage classrooms effectively, and boost student engagement. If you are looking to upgrade your body language skills, check out our online pre recorded courses on various topics that come with lifetime access. You can also explore our Signature Body Language Personal Coaching program Reach out to us on – +9199309 41534.
FAQ's
How does a leader's body language build team trust during change?
When things are uncertain, people pay more attention to a leader’s actions than their words. Open body language, calm movements, and steady eye contact help the team feel safe and confident. On the other hand, closed or nervous body language can increase stress. People often decide whether to trust a leader before anything is said.
What can leaders learn by watching employees' body language in meetings?
Employees’ posture, facial expressions, and small movements can show how they really feel, even if they don’t say it. By noticing these signals, leaders can change their tone, speed, or message to keep everyone engaged. This helps leaders better understand the situation and respond effectively.
Why does executive presence change as leaders become more visible?
As leaders take on bigger roles, more people watch and judge their behaviour. They often become calmer, use fewer but more meaningful gestures, pause before speaking, and speak with a steadier voice. These changes happen because they know their actions are always being noticed.
How does body language show an organisation's culture?
When many employees show closed or guarded body language, it often points to a larger workplace issue rather than individual discomfort. Body language can reveal how people feel about the organisation before they express it in words. Leaders who notice these signs can better understand their team’s true mindset.
What happens if leaders ignore nonverbal cues during times of change?
If leaders don’t pay attention to body language, they may think everyone agrees with them when that isn’t true. Employees may look attentive but still feel disconnected or uncertain. Over time, this can reduce trust and make it harder for the team to accept change.
