Herminia Ibarra | Enduring Excellence Conversation

What does it take to act like a leader before you feel like one? In this conversation, leadership expert Herminia Ibarra explores how career transitions, network expansion, and experimenting with new behaviors can transform the way we lead. Drawing on decades of research and real-world examples, Herminia offers insight into navigating identity, authenticity, and leadership in a rapidly changing world. About the Speaker: Herminia Ibarra is a renowned expert on leadership, career development, and professional identity. She is Professor of Organizational Behavior at the London Business School and the author of influential books including Act Like a Leader, Think Like a Leader and Working Identity. Herminia’s research focuses on how leaders navigate career transitions, expand their networks, and experiment with new behaviors to grow in effectiveness and impact. She is recognized globally for translating rigorous research into practical guidance for executives, professionals, and organizations seeking to thrive in an era of rapid change. Key Questions This Video Explores: • How can expanding your network unlock new career and leadership possibilities? • The role of experimentation and stepping into new experiences to develop leadership skills. • How coaching, mentorship, and structured practice can accelerate personal growth. • Longevity and AI: How extended careers and technology are reshaping leadership development. Timestamps: 00:00 — Introduction 02:10 — The importance of expanding your network beyond familiar contacts 06:30 — What is the “authenticity trap” and how can it limit growth? 10:15 — Experiments in leadership: Acting your way into new behaviors 14:45 — Coaching, mentoring, and structured practice for leaders 18:20 — Early steps for those feeling stuck in career or leadership 21:05 — “Outside vs. Insight”: Learning through new experiences 23:00 — How do you transform through experimentation? 25:50 — The impact of longevity and AI on leadership and career transitions 29:00 — Advice for retirees and late-career reinvention 31:15 — Closing reflections: Writing, teaching, and next chapters This event with Herminia Ibarra was part of our Enduring Excellence series between Tyler Mathisen of CNBC and a series of distinguished guests who have demonstrated excellence and longevity in their field. Learn more about Enduring Excellence here: https://graham.uchicago.edu/enduring-excellence/. Learn more about all University of Chicago Graham School offerings and events here: https://graham.uchicago.edu/ This discussion has been edited for length.