Why Kindness in Leadership is NOT a Weakness but a Game Changer

Today, Jivan sits down with Ameesha Green, founder and CEO of Bookshelf Limited, who shares her journey of leading with kindness in the workplace. Ameesha discusses her upbringing in a single-parent household and how her mother's resilience shaped her values-driven leadership style. They delve into the transformative power of empathy, clear boundaries, and a people-first culture, highlighting how kindness can significantly impact recruitment, retention, and overall workplace morale. KEY TAKEAWAYS Leading with kindness is not just a soft approach; it can be a game-changer in business. It fosters a people-first culture that enhances recruitment, retention, and overall workplace morale. Engaging with team members to understand their definitions of kindness and what they need from a leader is crucial. This personalised approach helps create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued. While kindness is important, leaders must also focus on business sustainability. Open communication about company challenges and decisions can help maintain trust and transparency with the team. Establishing and adhering to core values from the outset can guide business decisions and foster a culture that attracts like-minded individuals, both employees and clients. Gradually introducing responsibilities and encouraging team members to step out of their comfort zones can build confidence and lead to better performance, demonstrating that kindness can coexist with accountability and growth. BEST MOMENTS "I think for me, it's kind of having that people focus first. Beginning with thinking about other people rather than thinking about the business or profit." "Leading with kindness isn't just a nice-to-have in business, it's a game-changer." "I think it is a really challenging time. But I would hope that, you know, people still continue to display kindness in leadership." "I really do believe that everyone has some wisdom that they can share with people, their individual life story and something in that will inspire others." "It's actually a strategy that really transforms teams and can drive results and create workplaces where your team thrives." Connect with Ameesha https://www.linkedin.com/in/ameesha-green/ HOST BIO Jivan Dempsey has first hand experience of workplace toxicity and bad boss behaviour. Triggered by the #MeToo movement she was compelled to talk about her experiences in her early career, groomed and assaulted by a boss at work, his subsequent aggression and bullying behaviour which impacted her work performance, mental health and eventually cost her a job she'd loved. Listeners are drawn to her raw honesty and insightful reflections on change and resilience. Her book, "The HR Change Manager's Handbook" and collaboration on "Can't Break Me," attest to her change and transformation expertise and dedication to empowering others - from someone who's been in the trenches and emerged stronger. As a seasoned HR professional, consultant, psychologist and speaker, she offers bespoke consultancy and programmes to help companies navigate HR transformation that delivers a better employee experience and cultural shifts to create healthier, happier, and more inclusive workplaces for all. Please connect with Jivan: (16) Jivan Dempsey FCIPD GMBPsS | LinkedIn Or email: [e-mail] www.fiverivers-consulting.com HR Change Manager’s Handbook: The 3 Step Guide To Managing HR Transformation: https://amzn.eu/d/drvToPv Are you working in a toxic environment? Take our free quiz to find out https://bit.ly/3BPZXSR This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/