As we emerge from the pandemic, businesses, non-profits, governments, and educational institutions have all undergone significant changes. The COVID experience has reset what mattered in the past and definitely changed the course of the future. In the future, many organizations may look at hybrid working models for their people. When people return to their offices, they may want to prioritize health and well-being above all else. If the ways of working have changed, shouldn’t the ways of leading change too?

The future of work and leadership

I strongly believe that the future is for transformational leaders who are decisive, build resilient organizations and manage the dynamic nature of the world of work. What we have witnessed during this pandemic and learnt from is that change is the only constant. A dynamic, unprecedented situation like this may not demand stereotypical leaders. What it needs is leaders who understand the human condition. So, what does it take to be a transformative leader?

The definition of a transformative leader

Transformative leaders bring together purpose, values, and the leadership behaviours the world needs right now all together. But one should not restrict themselves to a pre-defined set of behaviours. It’s about the way we each realize our purpose, connecting head and heart, fostering deep connectivity through empathy and confidence. It’s how you provide the leadership the world needs. 

Navigating this new normal

Leaders must be prepared to navigate this new normal. With an increased focus on soft skills and empathy, leaders of today and tomorrow need to demonstrate connectedness. In her writings, Maya Angelou makes an excellent point and states, ““At the end of the day people won't remember what you said or did, they will remember how you made them feel.” This is true for organizations now. Employees will remember how leaders acted during this challenging time and the impact those actions had on the people.

Better me, better us and a better working world

At our organization, for instance, we have put purpose at the heart of our organization’s Transformative Leadership model. This model is designed to help everyone build a ‘better me’, a ‘better us’ and a better working world for our business, clients, and society. The focus is on wellbeing and teaming, becoming more agile and demonstrating a desire for continuous learning.

A culture of empathy

It has become extremely important to retain and nurture great talent. Organizations must focus on developing and fostering a culture that promotes empathy, transparency but also a culture that makes people feel valued. This is where leaders have to drive change and lead by example. This is where a leader’s soft skills will play a key role in how things progress at the workplace.

What the working world needs

Think about this - does your leadership skills meet what the worlds need now? Are you agile and curious? If you are willing to make real change and lead, build these qualities to navigate uncertain times by welcoming change and painting a compelling vision that rallies others to seek the answers we need for today and the future. Be purpose-driven to bring out the best in yourself and others, you inspire your teams and clients. Harness tech to continuously innovate and learn, leading people to build a better working world.