Leadership Lessons from Trick-or-Treating
Last week I took my kids, Ajay (10, dressed as a pumpkin) and Adelynn (8, a fox), trick-or-treating through our neighborhood. It’s one of my favorite traditions, the excitement, the costumes, the community energy. As we walked from house to house, I noticed how differently each family approached the night. Some had lights blazing and music playing; others were dark and quiet. Some offered candy from a bowl on the porch, others handed it out personally, and a few had transformed their homes into full-blown haunted attractions.
It got me thinking, leadership is a lot like Halloween night. Everyone’s doing the same thing (guiding, giving, supporting), but the way we do it looks very different. And those differences shape the experience for everyone involved.
Anthony, Adelynn & Ajay heading out to enjoy the Halloween festivities
Here are five types of “houses” I noticed, and what they can teach us about leadership styles:
1. The “Leave the Bowl Out” House
These are the hands-off leaders. They provide resources and direction but trust people to take only what they need. This approach can empower independence, but it only works when there’s a foundation of trust and accountability. Without it, you end up with an empty bowl before the first group of kids is done.
2. The “One Piece Only” House
These leaders value order, fairness, and consistency. They’re structured and clear in their expectations and everyone gets the same amount. While this creates stability, it can also feel rigid if it leaves no room for flexibility or recognition of individual needs.
3. The “Creative Theme” House
Lights, music, costumes, and a coordinated candy experience that all go together. These are the visionary leaders who love to inspire and engage. Their energy draws people in, and they create moments people remember. But they must be careful not to burn out or set expectations so high that consistency suffers the rest of the year.
4. The “Haunted House” Experience
Larger than life decorations, talking skeletons, flying bats and transformed garages provide a spooking and “all in” on Halloween experience. These leaders push people out of their comfort zones. They challenge teams to face fears and grow through discomfort. When done well, this style builds resilience and courage, but too much intensity can make people avoid the “house” altogether. Balance is key.
5. The “Front Porch Connection” House
These are the relational leaders. They greet every trick-or-treater personally, ask about their costumes, and make everyone feel seen. They know the magic is in the interaction, not just the candy. These leaders build loyalty and trust because they care about the person, not just the performance.
As I watched my kids run from door to door, I realized that all these houses were part of what made the night great. Each one contributed something different to the overall experience.
Leadership is the same way. There isn’t one perfect style, just a set of choices that shape how people experience you. The goal isn’t to be the biggest or flashiest house on the block, it’s to be intentional and authentic about how you show up for the people who come knocking.
Keep MIBE-ing!
Anthony Lambatos
Founder, MIBE Hospitality Leadership Development
Owner, Footers Catering
P.S. Be intentional in your leadership growth! Join us at our MIBE Summit January 25th - 27th.
