In the past decade, there has been a fundamental industry-wide shift towards a more human-centric approach to leadership. Today, I want to share my evolving leadership philosophy as the CEO of Good Commerce. By incorporating key principles from thought leaders like Simon Sinek, Brene Brown, and Kim Scott, I recognize the need for constant personal growth to allow me to promote an environment that truly empowers my team and fosters success.
Set People Up for Success
One of the core tenets of my leadership philosophy is setting people up for success. It's about more than just assigning tasks; it's about understanding the unique strengths, capabilities, and aspirations of each team member. By aligning their roles with their passions, talents, and skills, I not only ensure they excel but also empower them to contribute their best work.
Lean Into Vulnerability, Trust, Kindness
The age-old belief that leadership requires a veneer of invincibility is quickly giving way to a culture of vulnerability, trust, and kindness. I've embraced this change wholeheartedly. When leaders show their vulnerability, it builds trust among the team. We're all human, after all, and we're all on this journey together. This empathy and kindness are at the heart of a team that feels valued and appreciated.
Regular Check-Ins
Regular check-ins are essential in my leadership philosophy. They provide a space for open communication, fostering an environment where everyone feels comfortable discussing concerns, celebrating successes, and making adjustments as needed. By checking in regularly, I ensure that my team is aligned with the overarching vision and that we're all on the same page.
Encourage Everyone to Do Better
I firmly believe that everyone is capable of more than they realize. As a leader, my role is not just to set the bar high but to inspire and support my team to exceed their own expectations. By encouraging continuous improvement and offering constructive feedback, I help each team member tap into their untapped potential.
Constant Learning and Self-Improvement
Leadership is a journey, not a destination. It's a journey of continuous learning, growth, and self-improvement. I've drawn inspiration from a diverse range of books, from Simon Sinek's "Start with Why" to Kim Scott's "Mindset." These sources have enriched my leadership style by emphasizing the importance of purpose, empathy, and adaptability.
Understanding Mistakes and Grace
Mistakes are inevitable, and as a leader, I understand that both myself and my team will make them. However, it's how we respond to these mistakes that truly matters. We should see them as opportunities for growth and learning, not as failures. In these moments, I offer grace, understanding, and support, ensuring that we emerge stronger and more resilient.
Taking Feedback and Actioning It
Effective leadership necessitates a two-way street for feedback. I've learned to not just receive feedback but actively seek it out. Feedback is a valuable tool for self-improvement and growth. The key is not only to listen but also to take action. Feedback is only as effective as the changes it inspires.
As a lead, I acknowledge that perfection is an unrealistic goal. It's the pursuit of these principles, the constant self-reflection and adaptation, that matters. Leadership is about the journey, not the destination. By following this philosophy, I aim to create an environment where relationships are valued, expectations are clear, and each team member is empowered to reach their full potential. The result? A thriving, connected, and successful team that's always eager to do a bit better than they thought they could.