The most important attribute of a successful leader is to create an environment of inclusivity, empathy, open communication, empowerment, integrity and mutual respect. A powerful leader should have a clear vision that is aligned with organisational goals and be able to drive the team towards it. One of my greatest learnings as a manager is the power of empowering people with the right skill set and mindset; empowered teams can harness their strengths in the right direction.
I have embodied a growth mindset and have surrounded myself with people who are lifelong students. I have worked closely with each of my team members to ensure that their development goals are realised and met. It is very important to clearly set KPIs for the team and align them with their skillsets and aspirations. I have always focussed on constant upskilling and have driven the team to outline their annual training and development charters. I strive hard to create an environment where team members feel comfortable sharing their thoughts, concern and feedback.
My biggest challenge has been to create a team with the right mix of functional expertise and integrity; a team that can navigate through relations with external stakeholders. I have had to balance strategic relations with product partners and uphold a high standard of quality and service. I have followed a nuanced approach of creating a strong internal organisation structure with skilled and accountable people who are equipped to solve complex problems.
I have tried to instill a strong sense of camaraderie in the team; we not only celebrate our achievements and milestones together but also deliberate on failures as a group. I have relied heavily on positive reinforcement to instill a sense of resilience in the team. I have worked very hard to embody resilience to ensure that my team stays motivated and focused during challenging times.
I want to emphasise the importance of the right quotient of emotional intelligence to aspiring leaders. Leaders who personify empathy and emotional wellbeing build strong relationships, manage stress and resolve conflicts effectively. In the race to professional excellence, mental health often gets neglected. I have worked relentlessly in developing techniques to maintain an equilibrium of the mind, body and emotions and have instilled the same in my team. This has also helped me improve the interpersonal dynamics of my team and create an atmosphere of growth and mutual respect.
