Executive coach Stephen Bruyant-Langer shares his new model of leadership, based on the core principles of Nordic culture. The model explains why Nordic countries – and their organizations – thrive, and how organizations worldwide can adopt these principles.
Key Takeaways: understanding the Nordic Leadership Model
- There are nine dimensions to Nordic leadership. Horizontal, network, parallel, circular, distributed, motivional, coupled, spiral, and trust.
- The central dimension is trust. Traditional organizational models lack trust, and this is what causes friction. More trust means reduced complexity and faster decision making.
- The model requires giving away power. This is difficult for leaders. But empowering others creates more value in the long run.
About Stephen Bruyant-Langer
Stephen Bruyant-Langer is an executive coach, author and keynote speaker. He worked in marketing for Coca-Cola and L'Oréal before founding his own executive coaching company.
His latest book is called The Existential Playbook: How to Survive, Live and Thrive.
Let's act: implementing the Nordic Leadership Model
Stephen's recommended first step is to contact someone who has a different perspective from your usual way of thinking. This widening of inputs entrenches trust and combats narrow thinking.
Access the essential membership for Modern Managers
So make this commitment today:
- Ask for an opinion on a leadership issue from someone new.
It will feel awkward in the beginning. But by incorporating a diversity of perspectives, you'll start the journey to transforming your leadership.

Explore these further leadership resources from Mindtools for more insights:
- Quiz: How Good Are Your Leadership Skills?
- Article: Core Leadership Theories
- Article: Transformational Leadership
- Article: What a Real Leader Knows
- Video: Elevating Leadership: The Labor, Work, Action Model
- Podcast: Pain Points: Stephen Bruyant-Langer on Meaning<br/>