Political environments, whether in corporations, associations, boardrooms, or public affairs, are increasingly complex. Competing agendas, heightened emotions, and divergent viewpoints often turn collaboration into contention. Yet across dozens of interviews with hospitality’s most respected leaders for It’s Personal Stories, a powerful framework emerges for navigating these challenges with clarity, humility, and purpose. Their insights demonstrate that political skill is not about maneuvering around people, it is about understanding them.

1. Start With Purpose and Return to First Principles

When discussions become tangled or adversarial, leaders must reset the conversation by grounding everyone in the “why.” Political friction often arises when people argue tactics without aligning on purpose. Ho Kwon Ping, Founder and Executive Chairman of Banyan Tree Holdings, emphasizes this discipline, explaining that leaders must “always go back to first principles.” By returning to what the team is ultimately trying to solve, and for whom, leaders reduce emotional noise and bring focus back to shared goals.

2. Listen Fully Before You Lead

In politically charged environments, influence does not come from speaking first, it comes from listening first. Lindsey Ueberroth, President & CEO of Preferred Hotels & Resorts, stresses that “you really just have to be comfortable with listening,” a reminder that understanding precedes persuasion. Listening reveals pressures, motivations, and fears that shape people’s positions. Alicia Evanko-Lewis, Executive Vice President at Questex, echoes this sentiment, noting that leaders must “lead with empathy, especially when the path is unclear.” When people feel heard, political tension softens and collaboration becomes possible.

3. Use Curiosity to Bridge Divides

Curiosity is a disarming force in a polarized environment. Instead of reacting defensively, effective leaders explore why others feel as they do. Katherine Lugar, Executive Vice President of Corporate Affairs at Hilton, captures this mindset perfectly in her advice: “Be curious, not furious.” Alexi Khajavi, President, Hospitality, Travel & Real Estate, Questex, reinforces the creative power of curiosity, observing that “curiosity is the fuel that drives innovation.” Curiosity turns conflict into connection and transforms disagreement into possibility.

4. Build Coalitions and Supportive Networks

No leader can navigate political complexity alone. Strong, diverse relationships serve as both a stabilizer and a strategic advantage. Anna Blue, Founder, Blue Moss Group, observes that “big change happens when people come together,” highlighting the power of coalition-building. Ama Romaine, General Counsel of Progress Residential, adds that “you’re not going to get there alone,” emphasizing that alliances create resilience and broaden perspective. Trust-based relationships help leaders anticipate tensions, bridge divides, and gain support more easily.

5. Lead With Integrity, Not Ego

Ego is one of the most corrosive forces in any political environment. It inflames conflict, erodes trust, and shifts focus away from collective purpose. Agnelo Fernandes, CEO of Cote Family Companies, captures the antidote succinctly: “Integrity is what defines me.” When decisions are grounded in values rather than self-interest, people are more inclined to follow. Ho Kwon Ping cautions that “the biggest impediment to leadership is ego,” reinforcing that humility is not a weakness, it is a strategic strength. Leaders who check their ego make room for collaboration, honesty, and respect.

6. Pace Your Decisions to Bring People With You

Even the right decision will fail if stakeholders feel excluded or rushed. Katherine Lugar, EVP Corporate Affairs of Hilton, reflects on pivotal guidance she once received: “It’s good to be one step ahead…but you don’t want to be two steps ahead.” Progress requires momentum, but also patience. Leaders must communicate their intentions, involve others early, and ensure people understand the rationale behind change. Craig Bond, Managing Director of La Vie Hotels, offers a complementary insight, noting that “confidence comes from doing something that scares you,” reminding leaders that courage and pacing must coexist.

Leading With Humanity in Times of Complexity

The hospitality leaders whose voices shaped this article show that navigating a complex political environment is less about strategy and more about character. It is about staying anchored in purpose, listening deeply, asking honest questions, cultivating trusted relationships, leading with integrity, and pacing change with care. These principles bring clarity to confusion and unity to division.

In a world where political climates shift quickly, the most effective leaders are those who approach complexity with humility, curiosity, and a genuine desire to understand others. Their wisdom offers a timeless compass, one that can guide any leader toward better decisions, stronger relationships, and lasting impact.