Podcasts

Using over 1.5 million assessments from leaders worldwide, renowned psychometrician Dr. Joseph Folkman and leadership legend Dr. Jack Zenger are here to settle the debates and let the data speak for itself. Each week they analyze different leadership traits, trends, and what it really takes to get to the 90th percentile. These short episodes feature compelling stories, research, and actions that leaders can take to improve.

Episode 171: Memorable Leadership—10 Behaviors That Make Leaders Unforgettable

The 90th Percentile: An Unconventional Leadership Podcast

Published: August, 2025

Details

In today’s episode, we’re unpacking the results of a massive leadership study — over 63,000 assessments — to answer one key question: What makes certain leaders truly unforgettable? We’ll explore the 10 specific behaviors that set the most exceptional leaders apart, backed by real-world examples from sports, business, and history. Whether you work in HR, organizational development, or leadership training, you’ll come away with insights you can use to identify, develop, and prepare leaders for their defining moments.

Key Points

Memorability in leadership comes from behaviors, not titles.
Just like Denzel Clarke’s unforgettable catch, leaders are remembered for moments and actions that stand out — not for their job description.
The top 10% of leaders consistently practice 10 standout behaviors.
Based on 63,000 leadership assessments, these include fostering growth mindsets, inspiring energy, making decisive calls under pressure, and building trust through good judgment.
Trust and authenticity are the foundation of influence.
From Johnson & Johnson’s Tylenol recall to role-modeling values inside organizations, trust cements reputations far more than charisma.
Focus and clarity multiply impact.
Memorable leaders align their teams around a few high-priority goals — and have the discipline to eliminate distractions.
Memorable leadership isn’t just about steady performance.
It’s also about courage. Intel’s bold shift from memory chips to microprocessors shows how decisive moves can define legacies.
Preparation shapes defining moments.
Leaders don’t suddenly become courageous or visionary in a crisis — daily habits of clarity, trust, and growth prepare them for those big, unforgettable decisions.

Webinar

Zenger Folkman hosts an exclusive live webinar every month, where you can meet Jack Zenger and Joe Folkman and join in a conversation about their latest research in leadership development. Find out more information and register here.