kloeckner.i GmbH hat dies direkt geteilt
Chief Executive Officer @kloeckner.i | Project Portfolio Management, PMOGA Volunteer and NED Board Member
Bringing Kindness into Leadership: My thoughts about a big conviction of mine As a CEO with decades of experience across global markets, I’ve learned that kindness in leadership isn't just a "nice-to-have" - it's a commercial imperative that drives tangible results. Kindness fosters a culture of trust and respect. When employees feel valued and understood, their engagement levels soar. In one of my previous roles, implementing a culture of empathy led to a significant increase in employee retention within a year. Engaged employees are more productive, innovative, and dedicated - key drivers for any successful organization. Moreover, kind leaders create safe environments for open dialogue. This transparency encourages diverse perspectives, which are crucial for sound decision-making. I recall a project where a junior team member felt confident enough to voice a critical concern, ultimately saving the company from a costly error. It’s clear that kindness amplifies voices and ensures better outcomes. Empathy and kindness extend beyond internal teams—they resonate with clients and partners too. Building genuine relationships based on mutual respect and understanding has often led to long-term partnerships and loyalty. In my experience, clients who feel valued are more likely to collaborate, leading to sustained business growth. During challenging times, a kind approach can be a beacon of stability. By showing compassion and understanding, leaders can maintain morale and navigate through crises more effectively. Our organization’s ability to adapt quickly during the recent global challenges is a testament to the strength derived from a kind leadership approach. Furthermore, kindness fosters an inclusive environment where all employees feel they belong and can contribute. This inclusivity sparks creativity and innovation. At one firm, our focus on inclusive practices led to a significant increase in new product ideas, significantly boosting our competitive edge. As we lead our organizations, let’s remember that kindness is not a weakness but a formidable strength. It’s about creating environments where people can thrive, innovate, and drive exceptional business results. After all, the true measure of a successful leader is not just in the profits we generate but in the lives we touch and the positive impact we create. Let’s champion kindness and watch our workplaces flourish!