The Expert Trap: When Technical Skill Limits Leadership Impact
You were promoted for your expertise. And that’s exactly what’s holding you back.
Many technical leaders struggle to shift from “doing the work” to “leading the work.” Letting go is hard. Worse? It’s not enough.
This session reveals why stepping back doesn’t work—and what it really means to step up as a leader.
Key Takeaways:
- Why the shift from expert to leader is harder than it looks
- A practical model for blending expertise, leadership, and coaching mindsets
- Tools to expand your leadership presence without losing your edge
Great leadership doesn’t abandon expertise—it evolves it.
About Pete Behrens
Pete Behrens didn't set out to become a leadership expert. His professional journey began as an engineer, solving technical problems, but life had other plans. Over three decades, Pete has evolved from individual contributor to technical leader to business executive and organizational coach, learning that the most complex challenges aren't technical; they're human.
As Founder and CEO of Agile Leadership Journey, Pete has dedicated his career to helping leaders navigate uncertainty with courage and authenticity. He believes that leadership isn't about having all the answers; it's about having the humility to ask better questions and the courage to step forward when the path isn't clear.
Pete’s debut book, “Into the Fog: Leadership Stories from the Edge of Uncertainty,” captures decades of leadership wisdom through compelling real-world stories. The book reveals how authentic leadership emerges not in moments of clarity, but in the uncertainty of everyday challenges–what Pete calls “the Fog.”
An influential speaker, Pete has shared his insights at various global conferences and hosts the Relearning Leadership™ podcast, where he engages with industry experts and leaders to explore the evolving landscape of leadership and organizational development.
More About Pete »