Interview with Chris Ernst and Donna Chrobot‐Mason, authors of Boundary Spanning Leadership

Purpose – The purpose of this article is to provide an interview with Chris Ernst and Donna Chrobot‐Mason, authors of Boundary Spanning Leadership , and experts in the field of leadership development and psychology. Design/methodology/approach – This briefing is prepared by an independent interviewer Findings – The advances in internet and collaboration technologies have dismantled many of the boundaries that once prevented people from working together. Yet, as physical boundaries were removed, the boundaries that still exist in human relationships remain, in sharp and jagged relief. In a flat world, bridging boundaries between groups is the new and critical work of leadership. Practical implications – Provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world's leading organizations. Social implications – Provides strategic insights and practical thinking that can have a broader social impact. Originality/value – Boundary Spanning Leadership outlines six different types of leadership practices: buffering, reflecting, connecting, mobilizing, weaving and transforming. If implemented, these practices can enable leaders to manage boundaries, forge common ground and discover new frontiers.