Why I'm searching for the kindest people in British business
Profitable, powerful, productive… these are all words we use to describe leaders, yet we so rarely mention or celebrate kindness. Indeed, too often we associate kindness with weakness - but nothing could be further from the truth.
As the Founder of the Women of the Future Programme, a range of platforms and initiatives which celebrate some of the most successful women all over the world, I have seen the true power of kindness in business and leadership.
It is not a secret weapon, rather it is the DNA that can transform relationships, impact outcomes (whether productivity, engagement or customer service), and uplift our colleagues and communities. By empowering others to succeed, kind leaders create an environment for organisations as a whole to thrive. This this is exactly why, in 2018, we want to change the leadership conversation and celebrate 50 kind leaders with our 50 Leading Lights campaign, launched with the support of Lloyds Banking Group.
What do I mean by kindness? It can be anything, big or small, that you do - and this is key - without expecting something in return.
In a world in which we obsess over statistics, ROI; and are under constant pressure to innovate and adapt, with our time seemingly running faster and faster through the hourglass, kindness has the power to set leaders apart. It surprises; it cuts through traditional boundaries of hierarchy, gender and diversity, and it inspires action.
I have been honoured to witness many wonderful examples of kindness in leadership over the years, and there are many people who stand out. One was the late Baroness Tessa Jowell always surprised me at each of our interactions by the way in which she used every opportunity to give more than she had to.
With kindness comes a feeling that is not easily forgotten. Think about customer service that has delighted you; think about a boss who inspired you to be where you are today; think about a brand or business you are loyal to because they seem to genuinely care. Kindness enhances the best qualities in people; it disarms a disagreement and it brings about collaborations which you may never have dreamed possible.
Since Women of the Future began in 2006, we have received thousands of nominations and our shortlisted candidates are interviewed extensively. Our nominees come from all walks of life and professions, whether they be CEOs of FTSE 100 companies, scientists who have made life-changing discoveries or ambassadors for mental health reform. Yet each one exemplifies what is possible when kindness is weaved into leadership. We hear over and over again, how our candidates have used it to uplift their teams and give a voice to the voiceless.
I have also seen how kindness begets kindness. For many years now I have invited candidates and their families into my home (I love cooking for others) for a meal shared around my kitchen table, and over the years, I’ve seen how simple gestures like this are reciprocated; how doors leading to new opportunities are opened without ever needing to ask.
As one of my favourite quotes by Cuban actress Hada Bejar puts it so beautifully, “The fragrance always stays in the hand that gives the rose.”
My top tips for building kindness in leadership
1. I’m reminded of Will Durrant’s famous saying (often misquoted as Aristotle): “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” Make kindness a part of your life. Do one thing, however small, without any want for reciprocation, every single day. Make it part of your DNA.
2. When you’re having a heated discussion or dispute, think about kindness. No one has ever lost an argument because they were kind, but we all have regrets because we weren’t.
3. Be active and creative with your kindness. We always talk about innovation and business. Let’s also talk about innovation and kindness. Mentor others, spend time with a junior employee, surprise your team, tell someone what you value most about them.
4. Switch off digital for a while. Social media likes or interactions don’t have the same effect as a real life conversation. Pick up the phone. Go out for lunch. Write a note. Make someone laugh. Remember that time and being present in the situation is worth its weight in gold.
5. Honour kindness. Kindness is more often than not, silent. Look for it in others. Celebrate it.
Know a kind leader who you think should be one of Women of the Future’s 50 Leading Lights? Nominate them here, by Friday August 17, 2018.
