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In today’s fast-paced and often competitive world, leaders often act by exerting power and authority as a way to get the work done. When I was early in my career, I believed this type of power was what was going to motivate my teams to get the job done. I emulated the leaders who raised me and didn't take the time to consider otherwise. That kind of leadership needed to be reDEFYned!
The most effective leaders understand that true leadership is about guiding and inspiring others. Over time, I came to learn this for myself and I saw firsthand that one of my most powerful skills was leading with kindness. Far from being a sign of weakness, leading with kindness is a strategic approach that fosters loyalty, encourages collaboration, drives long-term success, and optimizes outcomes along the way.
The Misconception of Kindness as Weakness
Many people mistakenly believe that kindness in leadership is a vulnerability—something that might undermine authority or signal indecisiveness. I actually had one of my superiors tell me I was being "too nice" and that I needed to stop seeing things from the employees perspective. This advice couldn’t have been further from the truth.
reDEFYning this definition of kindness, especially when coupled with clear vision and strong decision-making, allows this perceived weakness to be a formidable strength. It allows leaders to connect deeply with their teams, build trust, and create an environment where everyone feels valued and are motivated to contribute their best work.
Kindness in leadership doesn’t mean avoiding tough decisions or shying away from difficult conversations. In fact, kindness has allowed me to navigate the tough decisions and difficult conversations in a much more humane and thoughtful way for everyone involved. Leading with kindness means approaching difficult situations with empathy and understanding, ensuring that every action taken is in the best interest of the team and the organization.
Practical Strategies for Leading with Kindness
Here are a few tips to bring your kindness to the forefront and lead from a place of strength:
Active Listening and Genuine Engagement: Active listening is more than just hearing words; it’s about understanding the emotions and intentions behind them. When leaders take the time to genuinely listen to their team members, they demonstrate respect and concern for their well-being. This builds trust and opens the door for honest communication. To practice active listening, focus on the speaker, avoid interrupting, and provide feedback that shows you’ve understood their perspective.
Regular Recognition and Appreciation: People thrive when they feel valued. It is a human need to want to be seen. Regularly recognizing and appreciating the efforts of your team members can significantly boost morale and productivity. This doesn’t have to be a grand gesture; even a simple thank you or public acknowledgment during a meeting can go a long way. Recognition fosters a positive work environment and reinforces more of the behaviors and attitudes you want to see.
Support Professional and Personal Growth: A kind leader invests in the growth of their team members, both professionally and personally. When we are better professionally, we are better personally. When we are better personally, we are better professionally. Supporting team members can involve providing opportunities for training, offering mentorship, or expecting work-life balance. By showing a genuine interest in team member development, leaders can inspire greater loyalty and commitment. This strategy not only benefits the individuals but also strengthens the organization by building a more skilled and motivated workforce.
Leading with kindness is not just a feel-good approach; it’s a smart leadership strategy that can lead to a more engaged, productive, and innovative team. My own journey through leadership has taught me this lesson. By integrating kindness into your leadership style, you will create a work environment where people are motivated to give their best, not out of fear or obligation, but because they feel genuinely valued and supported.
As we navigate the complexities of today’s work environment, let’s not forget that kindness, far from being a weakness, is one of the greatest strengths a leader can possess.
Emmy Beeson, The Change Coach, has dedicated her life to educating and serving others, knowing that by growing within, we can grow others in even more significant ways. Emmy knows that by asking key questions, one can open up and discover a whole new way of approaching the world. If you're ready to look within, schedule a free strategy session with Emmy today