Being a Good Leader in Good Times and Bad
June 13, 2026 Last month, I had the chance to talk to John Hardiman, CEO of American Farms in Naples, FL, a wholesale grower of annuals, perennials, specialty, and holiday plants. American Farms is No. 87 on Greenhouse Grower’s 2026 Top 100 Growers list, and one of the topics that came up during our conversation was what defines a good leader. Hardiman said something that stayed with me after we were done: “As a CEO, it’s not my job to lead the company. It’s to lead the leaders and let the leaders lead the company.”
The more I thought about it, the more I realized how right he was. A company is made up of people, and those people are the ones putting in the hours every day to grow the plants, sell them to buyers, and deliver them to customers. You may have a vision for where your company should be going, but it is your department leaders and their teams who help get you there.
That got me thinking about the traits that define a good leader. A quick online search will take you to a long list of what good leaders do or say, which can be a bit overwhelming. So, I pared that list down to focus on what good leaders do during times of change, growth, challenge, and in the everyday moments that shape workplace culture.
One note before going further: being a leader does not always mean being a CEO or a business owner. Whether you lead a team of five, 50, or 5,000 people, these ideas may still apply.
During periods of change, good leaders set the tone for how teams navigate uncertainty. Clear communication, steady guidance, and a willingness to address concerns can help people adapt and stay focused. Good leaders communicate early and often rather than leaving their teams guessing. They explain what is happening, why it matters, and how it affects the people around them. They make room for tough questions, and they admit when they do not have all the answers.
During periods of growth, good leaders can make a difference between momentum that feels exciting and momentum that feels overwhelming. Leaders who set clear priorities, support their teams, and recognize contributions create an environment where people can excel. Without that leadership, growth can quickly turn into burnout and chaos. Good leaders also make expectations clear as teams expand and ensure people have what they need to succeed.
During challenging times, good leaders provide direction, steady communication, and a sense of stability. Without these things, difficult situations can quickly spiral into frustration, disconnection, and a lack of progress. Good leaders acknowledge when things are tough, but they do not let panic take over. They stay focused on solutions, remain open to suggestions, and keep their teams connected so people feel supported even when the pressure is on.
Real leadership also shows in everyday moments. How leaders listen, give feedback, and follow through can either build trust and respect or slowly erode it. Consistency in those smaller actions goes a long way in shaping team culture. One more thing I learned from Hardiman is that he leads by example. He wanted to make sure our call ended on time so he could attend a birthday lunch for one of his longtime employees. Care, support, and recognition — that is what being a good leader is all about.
Subscribe to eNewsletter
