Recently I attended a recognition event that featured the celebration of a retiring CEO and the introduction of his successor. As the speakers were acknowledging the legacy of the retiring CEO, one theme emerged: “As a leader, he bridged differences.”

One definition of “bridge,” when used as a verb, is “to make a connection where there is a great difference.”

The retiring CEO bridged differences by:

• Listening to others
• Providing a vision for the future
• Respecting others’ points of view
• Soliciting ideas from others
• Collaborating with others

Leaders with these behavioral traits influence processes and people in a positive way. What a contrast to the current political discourse among would-be leaders in our nation. When leaders do not bridge differences, divisions among people accelerate while vision, creativity and productivity suffer or come to a stand-still.

I am reminded of the Vulcan greeting in Star Trek: “I am pleased to see that we are different. May we together become greater than the sum of both of us.”