Fast Company’s Post

𝗗𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝘀 𝗮 𝗗𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿 🤩🚀 “Strength lies in differences, not in similarities,” Stephen R. Covey once wisely noted, perfectly capturing the essence of diversity. The importance of diversity in leadership is evident more than ever in today’s dynamic business environment. Thanks to Kathryn Lynch for highlighting an enlightening report through our Innovate Island network, by the Enterprise Research Centre (UK) which brings valuable insights into how diversity shapes business strategies. Here are my thoughts on why conscious leadership that champions diversity isn’t just commendable—it’s crucial for fostering innovation and growth. 🟣 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗩𝗮𝗹𝘂𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗗𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 Embracing diversity in all its forms is at the heart of conscious leadership. This approach not only promotes fairness and awareness but also creates a fertile ground for innovative ideas and solutions. Research supports this, showing that leadership teams diverse in gender and ethnicity are more likely to seek and effectively utilise external advice. This practice proves essential for driving growth and sparking innovation within organisations. 🟣 𝗘𝗺𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗘𝘅𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 Diversity isn’t just about having varied voices at the decision-making table—it’s about actively listening and integrating those perspectives. Firms that harness the strength of their diverse leadership often achieve superior results, particularly in innovation, by leveraging external insights and turning them into strategic advantages. 🟣 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗰 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗲 The strategic benefits of diversity are substantial. Leaders who leverage diversity effectively not only act ethically but also gain a competitive edge by fostering a culture that is innovative and adaptable. These leaders are not just participants in the market—they are pioneers who shape the future of business. Let us champion diversity not merely as a compliance measure but as a cornerstone of strategic innovation and leadership. In embracing this ethos, we can build teams as diverse as the markets we serve and harness every shred of external advice with the power of inclusive leadership. As we look to the future, it’s clear: the most successful organisations will be those that recognise and realise the transformative power of diversity. For those interested in exploring this topic further, our leadership development workshop, “Boosting Team Performance,” covers the importance of diversity and provides tools for harnessing its benefits. 🤝 𝗟𝗲𝘁’𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁: DM for transformative leadership strategies through our talks, workshops, and programmes! PS. Enjoy what’s left of your Friday and have a super weekend. https://lnkd.in/gbSMsQ_b

To bosses, leadership might be a title that comes with a set of responsibilities. But to a true leader, it's a way of life. It's about leading by example, inspiring others, and making a positive impact every day. Leadership isn't about being in charge; it's about taking care of those in your charge. It's about empowering your team, fostering a culture of trust and collaboration, and always striving for excellence. So let's redefine leadership. Let's see it not just as a position of authority, but as a commitment to serving others, leading with integrity, and making a difference in the world. Because true leadership is not about the title you hold; it's about the impact you make.

The essence of leadership in the modern era is not about leading in the traditional sense. It is about envisioning the future, fostering an inclusive and collaborative environment, and being a catalyst for growth and development.

More exciting news to share- Mary E. Axelsen and I have been featured in Global Woman Magazine and our article is now live on their website! Having Human-Centered Leadership and our programs recognized in such a meaningful publication is an honor! If you get a chance, please check the article out below and feel free to share! https://lnkd.in/e5fYWNM7

Leaders who harness the power of inclusivity can drive more effective change within their organisations. In her latest Forbes article, Symmetra’s founder Heather Price shares 3 practical strategies for maximizing change power through inclusivity. This piece explores the essential role of inclusive leadership in navigating today's complex business landscape. Read more: https://hubs.ly/Q02PR_8k0 #inclusion #changemanagement #growth #leadership @ForbesHRCouncil

This thought-provoking article on U.S. News discusses the key shifts in leadership styles over time, emphasizing the need for leaders to be agile, emotionally intelligent, and tech-savvy in today's dynamic business landscape. These insights resonate deeply with the values and teachings of Seattle University, where we prioritize holistic leadership development, emphasizing adaptability, empathy, and innovation. The article serves as a valuable reflection on how our education here at Seattle University prepares us to navigate the complexities of modern leadership. We highly recommend reading the full article as it provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution of #leadership practices. https://lnkd.in/gWVEc8Gv We want to hear your thoughts! How have you observed leadership evolving in your industry?

For Edward DeAngelis, CEO of EDA CONTRACTORS, INC., leading with humanity is the most important way to approach being an intentional, purposeful leader and team member. Taking on each day with a deliberate mindset to be present, consistent and reliable, as well as emotionally available and respectful, is the core of effective leadership presence — and being an engaged and caring human being. Read Ed's latest at Forbes as part of the Forbes Business Council content for better leadership. #TheEDAWay #LeadWithHUMANITY #SuccessfulTogether 👷♂️

Leadership is not static, Cass Cooper, MHR, writes in her latest Inclusive Leadership column for CRN. It evolves alongside societal, economic, business, and technological shifts. “This year reminded me that leadership rooted in inclusivity, creativity, resilience, and trust lays the foundation for impactful, future-focused organizations – a message we promote at CRN.” In 2024, she writes, we’ve seen how fostering diversity and leveraging creative problem-solving drive success. The year also highlighted the importance of viewing leadership as a skill set requiring empathy and adaptability. Cass encourages us to let these 10 lessons inspire a fresh approach to leadership in 2025:

Leadership Trends for 2024: The Year of Trust I just read a DDI article that I think you may enjoy: Leadership Trends for 2024: The Year of Trust. In the blog you will learn four key leadership trends for 2024 and how you can act on them to improve your leadership development in the year ahead. https://lnkd.in/g_PcZnzA

Leadership is not static, Cass Cooper, MHR, writes in her latest Inclusive Leadership column for CRN. It evolves alongside societal, economic, business, and technological shifts. “This year reminded me that leadership rooted in inclusivity, creativity, resilience, and trust lays the foundation for impactful, future-focused organizations – a message we promote at CRN.” In 2024, she writes, we’ve seen how fostering diversity and leveraging creative problem-solving drive success. The year also highlighted the importance of viewing leadership as a skill set requiring empathy and adaptability. Cass encourages us to let these 10 lessons inspire a fresh approach to leadership in 2025: