Fearless Leadership: Women Thriving in the Entrepreneurial World – Part Two

Leadership is not a one-size-fits-all scenario, and understanding the different styles allows us to tailor our approach to the unique needs of our teams and organisations. But it’s not just about the external expressions of leadership; it’s also about cultivating the qualities within ourselves that make us effective leaders.

We’ll be diving into the essential qualities that distinguish remarkable leaders, from effective communication to resilience, adaptability, and the ability to inspire and empower others. These qualities form the bedrock of successful leadership, and we’ll be providing practical insights on how to develop and hone them.

But that’s not all – we’re also exploring the power of a mindset shift in leadership. How we perceive challenges, embrace change, and foster innovation can make all the difference. In this part, we’ll unpack the mindset shifts that elevate leaders from good to exceptional.

So, whether you’re leading a team, managing projects, or simply intrigued by the multifaceted world of leadership, join us as we navigate through the dynamic terrain of leadership styles, qualities, and the profound impact of a mindset shift. The journey promises to be enlightening, empowering, and filled with actionable takeaways that you can incorporate into your leadership toolkit. Let’s continue this exploration together and elevate our leadership game to new heights!

McKinsey & Company, a US based management consultancy, have undertaken research and identified 9 leadership behaviours that lead to successful leadership. Of the 9 there are 5 that are applied more regularly by women than men. In general, they are more focused on people engagement, development and empowerment. Those behaviours, and what they mean, are:

• Participative decision making: building a team atmosphere in which everyone is encouraged to participate in decision making. This behaviour impacts the work environment and work values.
• Role model: being a role model, focusing on building respect and considering the ethical consequences of decision. Impact from this behaviour focuses on the performance of the leadership team.
• Inspiration: presenting a compelling vision of the future and inspiring optimism about its implementation. The impact here concerns the direction and motivation within the organisation.
• Expectations and rewards: defining expectations and responsibilities clearly and rewarding achievement of targets. Performance from this behaviour is relative to the accountability of personnel across the business.
• People development: spending time teaching, mentoring and listening to individual needs and concerns. This behaviour impacts the leadership capabilities as well as the work environment and values within the organisation.

There are a further two behaviours that are applied equally by both men and women. Those behaviours and what they mean are:

• Intellectual stimulation: challenging assumptions and encouraging risk taking and creativity. The area of performance within the organisation impacted by this behaviour relates to innovation.
• Efficient communication: communicating in a convincing way and with charisma. Organisational performance in the area of direction of the business.

The final two behaviours are applied more frequently by men. These are:

• Individual decision making: preferring to make decisions alone and engaging others in executing them. This behaviour is concerned with the external orientation of the business.
• Control and corrective action: monitoring individual performance including errors and gaps against objectives and taking corrective action, when needed – e.g. sanctions and realignment. Co-ordination and control within the business are the main areas of impact here.

In balance, the areas of organisational performance that are most significant for optimal business performance are applied more frequently by female leaders and, as such, their contribution to positive organisation performance is stronger.

Whether you’re an aspiring female leader or are already in post, taking the time to nurture your skills in the more constructive behaviours will be an asset to you and your future role performance.

Thriving as a female leader in the 21st century demands a profound shift in mindset—one that challenges prevailing stereotypes and embraces a perspective centred on growth and empowerment. Breaking free from societal expectations and traditional gender norms, women entrepreneurs are forging ahead with a mindset that paves the way for personal and professional success.

1. Challenge Stereotypes:

• Break the Mould: Disregard preconceived notions about how women should lead. Recognise that effective leadership is not confined by gender, but is defined by qualities, skills, and a commitment to success.
• Reframe Perceptions: Instead of internalising societal expectations, reframe them. View challenges as opportunities to defy stereotypes and showcase your unique leadership style.

2. Embrace a Growth Mindset:

• Continuous Learning: Cultivate a mindset of continuous learning. Embrace new challenges as opportunities to expand your skills and knowledge. Understand that setbacks are not failures, but rather stepping stones toward personal and professional growth.
• Embrace Change: In the fast-paced business world, adaptability is a valuable trait. Embrace change as a constant and see it as a chance to innovate, evolve, and stay ahead in your leadership journey.

3. Foster Empowerment:

• Encourage Self-Confidence: Believe in your capabilities and trust your decision-making. Cultivate self-confidence, recognising that your unique perspective and insights are valuable contributions to your leadership role.
• Empower Others: As a leader, empower those around you, irrespective of gender. Create an inclusive environment where everyone feels heard, valued, and capable of achieving their fullest potential.

4. Resist Imposter Syndrome:

• Acknowledge Achievements: Resist the tendency to downplay your achievements or attribute success to external factors. Acknowledge your accomplishments and understand that your skills and efforts have brought you to where you are.
• Seek Support: Connect with mentors and peers who can offer guidance and support. Discussing experiences and challenges openly can help dispel feelings of imposter syndrome and reinforce your self worth as a leader.

5. Redefine Success:

• Personalised Definition: Challenge conventional definitions of success. Define success on your terms, encompassing not only professional accomplishments, but also personal fulfilment, well-being, and the positive impact you make in your community and industry.
• Celebrate Achievements: Celebrate both small and significant achievements. By acknowledging your successes, you reinforce a positive mindset and inspire others to follow suit.

The mindset shifts necessary for women to thrive as leaders involve breaking free from stereotypes, fostering a growth-oriented perspective, and embracing empowerment. By challenging societal expectations, cultivating resilience, and redefining success, women entrepreneurs are not only reshaping leadership norms, but also inspiring a new generation of empowered and visionary leaders.

And there you have it – the concluding chapter in our exploration of effective leadership. From laying the foundations in Part One, where we uncovered the importance of legacy building, authentic leadership, overcoming gender bias, supportive networks, nurturing resilience, and the power of emotional intelligence, to the dynamic insights of Part Two, where we delved into leadership styles, qualities, and the game-changing impact of a mindset shift.

As we wrap up this journey, remember that leadership is not a static destination, but a continuous evolution. It’s about adaptability, growth, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Whether you’re a seasoned leader refining your skills or a rising professional aspiring to lead, the keys to effective leadership rest not just in strategies and styles, but in the genuine connections we build with those we lead.

Reflect on the importance of leaving a positive legacy, leading with authenticity, championing diversity, fostering supportive networks, cultivating resilience, and harnessing the power of emotional intelligence. Consider the diverse leadership styles and the qualities that set exceptional leaders apart. Embrace the mindset shifts that propel you forward, turning challenges into opportunities and setbacks into stepping stones for growth.

Leadership is a journey, and you are the captain of your ship. Navigate with purpose, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to making a positive impact. As you go forth into your leadership endeavours, remember that your influence extends beyond tasks and goals – it reaches into the hearts and minds of those you lead.

Thank you for joining us on this exploration. May your leadership journey be marked by inspiration, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Stay curious, stay committed, and lead with both your head and your heart. Here’s to becoming the leaders our teams, organisations, and the world truly need. Until next time, lead on!

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