Leaders Connect 360 recently had the privilege of hosting Mr. Santhosh C Kurup, a distinguished figure from the Digital University, Kerala, on weekly episode. The focal point of discussion was the intriguing concept of “Leadership Presence” and the dynamic role it plays in today’s fast-paced and diversified work environment.
Charisma Transformed into Hard Skills
Leadership presence, as highlighted by Mr. Kurup, is no longer solely about charisma; it has evolved into a blend of charismatic qualities and concrete hard skills. This transformation is crucial for effective leadership in the contemporary workplace.
Leading by Example and Being Part of the Team
True leadership involves being an integral part of the team, leading by example. Mr. Kurup emphasized the importance of being present at the right time and place, instilling confidence within the team and providing support from both the front and the back end.
Navigating Globalization and Diversity
In the current landscape where teams are globalized, comprised of individuals from diverse backgrounds, and operating in a hybrid mode, leadership presence takes on a new level of complexity. Managing generation gaps and diverse perspectives necessitates leaders to act as role models who bridge these gaps through actions that speak louder than words.
Attributes of Quality Leadership
Several key attributes were highlighted during the discussion:
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Accessibility: Leaders must be accessible, fostering an open cabin workspace and transparent interactions to build trust.
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Candor in Feedback: Leaders should be candid in providing feedback, fostering an environment of growth and improvement.
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Integrity: Demonstrating a high level of integrity is crucial for building credibility and trust.
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Ownership and Discipline: Leaders must take ownership, stand with discipline, and inspire through intrinsic motivation.
Building Trust through Communication
Leadership presence is also about effective communication. Mr. Kurup stressed the importance of:
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Clarity: Clear, crisp content in communication.
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Context Setting: Emphasizing “We” over “I” while articulating with the team to set the context.
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The 3Cs of Communication: Consistency, Clarity, and Conciseness are vital for effective communication.
Inspiration and Purpose
True leaders inspire by unleashing the purpose of the team and showcasing the big picture of the future. Mr. Kurup encouraged leaders to be lifelong learners, emphasizing the importance of staying in the flow, applying learning, and consistently upgrading skills.
Eisenhower Matrix and Risk Mitigation
Critical elements of any project should be organized and managed using the Eisenhower Matrix. Leaders must foresee risks and communicate mitigation plans effectively, turning feedback into a gift rather than a tool for fixing someone.
Read Also: Leadership Lessons from Trees
Staying in Touch and Continuous Learning
As a parting note, Mr. Kurup underscored the significance of being a lifelong learner. He emphasized that the day one stops learning and sharing is the day one starts aging. Continuous learning, staying in touch with the team, and ensuring their well-being are essential for effective leadership presence.
In conclusion, Leadership Presence, as illuminated by Mr. Santhosh C Kurup, is a
multifaceted concept encompassing not only charisma and soft skills but also hard skills, effective communication, and a commitment to continuous learning. Leaders, as role models, have the power to shape and inspire their teams, creating a positive and thriving work environment.