Last week I caught up with Tania de Jong and discussed what responsible leadership means to her.
Tania explained that responsible leadership means a variety of things.
To start with, if you say you are going to do it, then do it and commit to it by a certain time. It is better to say “No” you cannot do it than promise to deliver something you never will.
Secondly, make sure you help those you are responsible for - become responsible leaders.
Mentoring of those you are responsible for is very important. Give them support, feedback and encouragement to be able to constantly improve - even after they move beyond yourmanagement.
Responsible leaders also make a difference to the communities they are involved in. They are responsible for enacting social change, helping people unlock their potential so they can lead meaningful purposeful lives.
Responsible leaders also get involved in things that matter - before considering profit as a priority.
Giving staff a couple days a year to enact CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) ventures will have some results. Though there are limitations for long term success.
More regular involvement of staff in the community (at least weekly), working with people in need provides better long term results - for businesses and their staff involved. One hour a week after hours can make a huge difference.
Working together on social innovation projects outside their workplace gives staff new connections. These connections may lead to new business and increased creative thinking, though more importantly - they help with staff engagement and development and encourage them to keep working with you.
In-kind support is very important for most charities and community projects. This style of support also engages staff from the supporting business with the cause whereby they are more likely to help with fundraising via their own personal networks.
So how do we get creative with these engagements of business in social change?
Well, sometimes it starts at the CEO, though often it doesn't as more often connections with the community are beginning at middle management level.
If you are working on a social project... look to how you can impact...
- sales
- marketing
- distribution
- etc
These are usually your entry points to future business relationships.
For further information see…
Creativity Australia’s WITH ONE VOICE choir program www.creativityaustralia.org.au
More information available at...
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