18 Dec How to Build a More Likeable Government
11 Principles for Public Leadership that Actually Listens, Learns, and Leads with Heart
Over a decade ago, I wrote a little LinkedIn article called “11 Simple Concepts to Become a Better Leader.” It was inspired by my time in business — learning (often the hard way) that people don’t follow your title, they follow your example.
Since then, I’ve written books, built businesses, and spoken around the world about the power of listening, authenticity, and gratitude. Now, I’m taking all those principles and bringing them to something even more personal: my hometown.
I’m running for Town Supervisor of North Hempstead, New York, because I believe we deserve leadership that listens, acts with integrity, and puts people over politics. Government doesn’t have to be cold, confusing, or combative. It can be collaborative. Transparent. Likeable.
Here are 11 ways we can build a more likeable government — one principle at a time:
1. Listening
The best government isn’t led by the loudest voices — it’s led by the best listeners.
When I started my first company, I thought leadership was about giving direction. Turns out, it’s more about hearing others. I written about the power of listening in all 5 books I’ve written – and I’ve called it the most underrated and important skill in business, in relationships, and in life.
I believe it’s even more essential in public service.
In North Hempstead, that means holding regular town halls, responding to every email, and really hearing what matters to residents — even (and especially) when they disagree with you.
2. Storytelling
Facts inform, but stories inspire.
One of the moments that changed my life came from a chance encounter with Senator Frank Lautenberg when I was on a plane to Boston. That moment of kindness and support from a public servant I admired helped shape my entire belief in what public leadership could be.
I wrote about it in 3 Amazing Life Lessons from a Chance Encounter — and now, as I run for office, I’m reminded of the power a single story can have in someone’s life.
3. Authenticity
Voters can smell fake from a mile away. The best leaders don’t pretend to be perfect — they show up as they are.
Throughout my career, I’ve tried to lead with openness and honesty — whether that meant admitting mistakes publicly or sharing personal stories that show the real me. I’m not a career politician. I’m a dad, an entrepreneur, a neighbor. I believe that what people want most from their leaders is realness.
4. Transparency
Good government shouldn’t operate behind closed doors.
Transparency means budgets that make sense, processes that are easy to understand, and decisions that are made with people — not for them. That’s how we rebuild trust. That’s how we make government more likeable — and more effective.
5. Team Playing
The best leaders don’t go it alone.
My proudest accomplishment in business is making Crain’s Best Places to Work list 5 years in a row with 2 different companies. We did this, not because of me, but because of us. Together, we built a culture of respect, collaboration, and support. That same mindset applies in government. When elected officials work across departments and party lines, and truly respect town employees and community stakeholders, we all win.
6. Responsiveness
Nobody likes being ghosted — especially not by their government.
Whether it’s a pothole, a park issue, or a permit, people want to know they’ve been heard and that something’s being done. Responsiveness isn’t just customer service — it’s leadership. It says, “You matter.”
7. Adaptability
What worked yesterday might not work tomorrow — and that’s OK.
I’ve built businesses that had to pivot. I’ve been wrong, learned fast, and changed course. Government should do the same. We need to embrace innovation, adjust to changing times, and be willing to revise outdated approaches.
8. Passion
When leaders care, it shows — and it spreads.
My passion for North Hempstead runs deep. I live here. I’ve raised my family here. I’ve volunteered on the School Board, the Port Washington Education Foundation, and many organizations around town. I don’t need a title to care — I already do. But I’d love the opportunity to do more, and that’s what this campaign is all about: turning passion into progress.
9. Surprise and Delight
Yes — joy belongs in government too.
Whether it’s celebrating residents who go above and beyond, sending a handwritten thank-you note, or hosting an impromptu community event, the small touches matter. People remember how you make them feel — and nothing feels better than surprise and delight!
10. Simplicity
If people can’t understand it, it doesn’t work. Most government forms are written by and for lawyers – but if my 10 year old son can’t understand it – it’s not simple enough.
One of the easiest ways we can make government better is by making it clearer. No legalese. No complicated runaround. Just plain, accessible communication that respects people’s time and intelligence.
11. Gratefulness
Public service is a privilege — not a power trip.
I wrote a piece a few years ago called The Best Drug in the World. Spoiler alert: it’s gratitude. And it’s addictive — in the best way.
If I’m fortunate enough to be elected, I will never take the job for granted. I’ll thank the people who do the hard work behind the scenes. I’ll thank the residents who speak up, show up, and help make our town better. A culture of gratitude creates a culture of excellence.
Let’s Build Something Better
I believe these 11 principles — when put into practice — can transform government from something people tolerate into something they actually trust and like.
Let’s lead with kindness. Let’s govern with heart. Let’s make our town — and our country — more likeable.
— Dave Kerpen Entrepreneur | Author | Candidate for North Hempstead Town Supervisor
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