Rachel Dealto Says Relatability is a Hidden Superpower for Organizational Growth

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. — Communication expert Rachel Dealto, discussed the art of creating meaningful connections to grow leadership skills, and building an organizational culture rooted in trust, motivation and human connection at this year’s NPMA Academy

Dealto defined relatability as, “the ability to easily connect, communicate with and inspire others and their results. It’s beyond likeable; relatable people attract investments and kind energy, and you feel seen by them and reap the benefit of their leadership.”

By incorporating a relatable leadership style - from leadership and innovation to make sure teams are connected and to get rid of the competitive conflict culture - Microsoft went from being a $300 million company to today trending at $3.8 trillion.

Dealto said disengaged teams can lead to businesses losing up to $1.3 trillion annually, and through past leadership experiences of her own, she’s spent her career studying human connection.

“I created this leadership façade without a leadership foundation,” Dealto said. “I believed I had to force respect rather than earn it, and that’s why I’ve been studying connection and leadership since that day. I believe it’s the most essential tool that we have.”

While doing a study on relatability, Dealto said she surveyed 400 people in different organizations, positions and all age groups, to find out what the top five attributes are of relatable leaders.

Dealto shared the top attributes of relatable leaders: respect, clear communication, active listening and honesty/transparency.

“Trust is in our actions, and we have to build it,” she said. “Real connections are formed when we see the person behind the position.”

Dealto discussed personal costs of disconnecting in leadership practices — increased risks of depression and anxiety, cognitive decline and increased cardiovascular risks — as well as professional costs such as decreased productivity and team dynamics and lower job satisfaction.

Dealto concluded by encouraging attendees to build a culture of relatability by driving purpose into their organizations. She cited a study showing that only 32 percent of leaders inspire their team members, and “there’s not an organization out there that can’t figure out how to increase the figure,” she said.

“Real connections are formed when we see the person behind the position,” she said. “When we have that ability to let some of our personalities show.”

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