Top 10 Outstanding Women CEOs Of 2023

Issue :04/2023

Leadership Styles of Successful Entrepreneurs Pg. No. 18

The Impact of Ethical Leadership on Organizational Success Pg. No. 32

Top 10 Outstanding

W MEN

C Os Of 2023

Founder & CEO Oliver Sanderson

Natasha Makhijani www.ciobusinessworld.com

EDITORIAL

Stories of Leadership, Innovation, and Empowerment

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he last thing you want is to have an ordinary life.

Never live an ordinary life, always dream of bigger things in life, no matter at what stage you are in life. The positive energy always draws the success towards us. In the business realm, women are shining as a beacon of hope, recognizing and applauding everyone's success.

These women leaders today stand as a paragons of resilience, vision, and transformative approach, breaking barriers and paving the way for more inclusive and diverse setting. As we delve into the stories of such remarkable CEOs, we also aim to celebrate the achievements of the next generation of leaders. The journeys of such women stands as a testament to the power of determination, strategic thinking, and a commitment to excellence.

That is why this editorial is not just a recognition but a calling to all such women leaders. We reflect the progress made by these women in breaking gender stereotypes in the corporate world and champion the ongoing efforts for equality. It is also a collective responsibility to create an environment where talent and leadership are recognized irrespective of gender.

Let us honor these outstanding women CEOs, that their countless efforts is bringing successful results globally.

All in all, the hope is that this features sparks conversations, fosters mentorship, and encourages women to attain leadership roles at all stages.

Through this edition, Top 10 Outstanding Women CEOs of 2023 join us in celebrating these visionaries, disruptors, and change-makers who embody the spirit of leadership excellence. These stories will not just set the example, but serve as a beacon, guiding us towards a future where diversity, equity, and inclusion are just buzzwords but integral components of corporate success.

As you delve into the stories ahead, you'll see journeys from navigating industry shifts to fostering a culture of innovation, they share their experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Each of these CEO brings a unique perspective, proving that diversity in leadership is not just a goal, but a necessity for sustained success.

Read on to know more!

Editor in chief Robert Patrick

Contents Managing Editor : Smith Collins

Design Visualizer : Jack Thomas Arts & Design Director : Adam Jones Associate Designer : Erick Williams

Sales Senior Sales Manager : Scott M Marketing Manager : Andrew T Sales Executive : Mark Davis

Technical Victor Anderson

SME- SMO Research Analyst : Henry Martinez SEO Executive : Daniel Lee

Circulation Manager Alexander Nelson

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C O N T COVER

S TO R Y

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Natasha Makhijani

E N TS A RT I C L E

Leadership Styles of Successful Entrepreneurs

18 The Impact of Ethical Leadership 32 on Organizational Success 28

CXO

How To Determine If A Leader Deserves Your Alligence.

B US I N E S S PROF I L E

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Ingrid Reyes

COVER STORY

Natasha Makhijani Empowering Excellence in Staffing and Recruitment

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Founder & CEO Oliver Sanderson

www.ciobusinessworld.com 13

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Top 10 Outstanding Women CEOs Of 2023

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hen it comes to innovation, there is always cause to keep the spark alive. It is vital to foster innovation in any sector of business processes, as it is key for growth. At Oliver Sanderson, Natasha Makhijani is constantly growing with their recruiting systems and ways of working to foster creativity and innovative thinking.

Natasha is the Founder and CEO of Oliver Sanderson. She works hard every day to keep the team motivated and engaged with the company's vision and journey. She is a challenging, supporting, and inspiring leader. We at CIO Business World recognized her efforts and interviewed Natasha to understand her journey to success.

Below are the highlights of the interview: What inspired you to pursue a career in your industry, and how did you rise to your current position as CEO? I began my recruitment career on the Graduate Scheme at Hays. Recruitment appealed to me as I was passionate about people and enjoyed the fast-paced world of sales.

Growing up in a diverse neighbourhood, I wanted to help people like me and my friends to succeed and gain opportunities to progress in their careers. Fast-tracked into management roles, I achieved four promotions in four years and took a team from billing £10,000 to £80,000 a month.

From Hays I then moved to Michael Page, where I worked on a hybrid desk across permanent and interim senior leadership roles. I was given responsibility for growing Michael Page's Public Sector division from its offices in London and soon became the company's number one biller in HR across the UK. Having already set up executive desks at both Hays and Michael Page, I decided to launch my own business. I left a great job, sold my car to consolidate my savings, and set up an office in the dining room. Oliver Sanderson began as one lady and a laptop but has since grown into an international business at the cutting edge of executive search.

As a female CEO, what strategies have you used to overcome gender-related challenges in your career journey?

Being an Asian woman CEO in the recruitment industry has not been easy, but I've always seen it as a strength. I have always been unique, slightly different. Most importantly, I have had to be extremely assertive to get to where I am today. People used to do a double take when I

walked into the boardroom, but perceptions are beginning to change.

When I started my career, I was often the only woman in the room. I had to advocate for myself and be vocal about my achievements and ambitions. Continuously learning and pushing myself to succeed, eventually my results spoke for themselves, and I was taken seriously. It was also important to challenge stereotypes and biases and not be afraid to speak up for myself.

Can you highlight a significant achievement or turning point that played a pivotal role in your career trajectory?

I was honoured to be invited to feature in the 2022 Platinum Jubilee Pageant Commemorative Album, in a section on aligned organisations. We were selected for our “transformational contribution” to the sphere of business. It is one of my proudest achievements. Being a British Asian, my life has been shaped by our Royal Family. I was always inspired by the late Queen Elizabeth II in particular – her values, her global presence, her exceptional work ethic, and the way that she has always upheld service, even in the most challenging circumstances.

Being recognised in this way, and with other awards over the last few years, has helped Oliver Sanderson to grow and win new clients. Having prestigious awards and endorsement behind you really improves credibility and reputation.

How do you foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within your company?

Innovation is the key to business growth, and it is vital to foster innovation through suitable business processes. At Oliver Sanderson we are constantly learning, and we have systems and ways of working in place to foster creativity and innovative thinking.

Our team has driven our growth from day one, and I work hard every day to keep my team motivated and engaged with our vision and our journey. As a leader, it is vital that I am always challenging, supporting, and inspiring them. We set monthly and annual targets to hit for our team across a number of areas, from sales to social media engagement.

But we also support each other, understanding that growth isn't always linear, and we sometimes learn more from failure than from success.

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What strategies do you employ to foster open communication and collaboration among your team and departments?

I believe that the most effective way to foster open communication among my team is to lead by example and be open with them. This sets the precedent for communication which goes both ways.

We hold workshops to discuss the company values and how we can live and embody them. Ensuring that all employees understand the company's mission, vision, and overarching goals is vital to collaboration as it provides a common purpose and helps teams align their efforts. It also means that employees can recognise behaviour that goes against these values and they feel empowered to address the issue.

Finally, active listening is important as a business leader.

This means giving full attention, asking clarifying questions, and showing empathy. This ensures that team members feel heard and valued, and they are then more comfortable sharing their views.

How do you align your company's values and goals with societal and environmental concerns?

The societal issue that has always been most important to me, growing up as an Asian girl in a diverse neighbourhood, is Equity, Diversity & Inclusion. We are champions of ED&I in recruitment and across the wider business world, and we have made a real difference through our placements, our advocacy, our consultancy projects, and a wide range of speaking engagements, panel discussions, and awards programmes.

The core of our business is recruitment, and we are in a unique position to help our clients become more diverse and inclusive.

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For our clients, we adopt research-led practices to ensure more diverse shortlists and a more inclusive recruitment process, harnessing new technology to deliver better results.

Snapp CV, our in-house digital platform, is the world's first voice technology-enabled mobile job board with Amazon Alexa integration. We are breaking down barriers and helping our clients discover the next generation of business leaders, with masterclasses, networking sessions, buddy programmes, and placements organised through the app, with a focus on D&I. Last year we took our D&I work to the next level, launching a charity - the Black Leadership Advisory Council - alongside three co-founders who are all Black HR Directors. Through this initiative, we aim to accelerate the development of Emerging Black Leaders, particularly from deprived backgrounds.

Looking ahead, what are your aspirations and goals for both your company and your personal leadership journey?

Over the next 12 months, a key objective of mine is to continue the legacy of the company's co-founder, my late husband Akash, who sadly passed away last year. I have been committed to doing justice to his ideas and legacy and have worked closely with the team to ensure that we stay true to our core values and mission.

Looking ahead, I am focused on delivering in the US markets and am exploring the possibility of opening an arm in the US. Snapp, the digital platform that forms part of the Oliver Sanderson Group, is currently in talks with partners about obtaining series A funding and phase 2 of an AI project, automating more aspects of the platform and developing the fintech side. Meanwhile, a major project over the last 18 months has been creating the Snapp roadmap, which targets expansion to the USA and India.

Top 10 Outstanding Women CEOs Of 2023

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Top 10 Outstanding Women CEOs Of 2023

Leadership Styles of Successful Entrepreneurs

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f we can control our destiny, then we are all destined for success. Successful people are not just individuals who make products or services, but are leader who inspire, navigate uncertainties, and drive their ventures to success. Their leadership styles play a pivotal role in shaping the culture, growth, and resilience of entrepreneurs.

Thus let us see the diverse leadership styles adopted by successful entrepreneurs in showcasing their unique approaches that contribute to their achievements.

Visionary Leadership Visionary leaders are also dreamers and strategists, they possess a clear, compelling vision of the future and communicate the vision effectively to inspire their teams.

Entrepreneurs like Elon Musk, Steve Jobs, and Oprah Winfrey, exemplify visionary leadership. Their ability to see beyond, guide their organizations towards ambitious goals has been instrumental in the success.

Agile Leadership In today's changing world, agile leadership is essential, women entrepreneurs like Whitney Wolfe Herd, founder of Bumble, adapting quickly to market dynamics and championing innovation. Her ability to pivot and redefine the online dating landscape showcases the importance of agility in entrepreneurship.

Collaborative Leadership Collaborative women leaders emphasize teamwork, open communication, and problem-solving. Sara Blakely, founder of Spanx, exemplifies this collaborative leadership.

Her hands-on approach, openness to feedback, and dedication to creating a positive work have contributed to Spanx's success and innovation.

Authoritative Leadership

Transformational Leadership Transformational leaders are charismatic and inspire change by creating a shared vision. They focus on empowering and developing teams to achieve full potential. Richard Branson is a notable example of a transformational leader. Indra Nooyi, the former CEO of PepsiCo, is also another notable transformational leader. Her focus on corporate sustainability reflect the transformative impact of her leadership style.

Servant Leadership These style of leaders prioritize the needs of team members, fostering a culture of empathy and collaboration. Mary Barra, the CEO of General Motors, embodies servant leadership. By navigating the automotive industry challenges with resilience and a people-centric approach, barra has contributed to success and cultural transformation of General Motors.

These style of leaders provide clear direction, make decisions decisively, and instill confidence through expertise. Ginni Rometty, the former CEO of IBM, is wellknown for her authoritative leadership style. Her strategic vision and focus on technological advancements play a key role in steering IBM through transformative times in the tech industry.

By understanding and celebrating these leadership styles, aspiring women entrepreneurs can draw inspiration and insights to lead their ventures to success in an ever-evolving business landscape. Each entrepreneur's journey is marked by a blend of visionary thinking, transformative actions, and a commitment to empowering others. As we celebrate the accomplishments of these women leaders, it is also evident that their influence extends beyond business success. They continue to being a role models, as we witness the rise of women leaders in entrepreneurship, their stories illuminate the path forward.

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Ingrid Reyes Navigating the Creative Currents of Advertising

CEO M&A Creative Agency USA

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Top 10 Outstanding Women CEOs Of 2023 randing is an art, and if combined both, it can truly become a success story. Today, advertising agencies are responsible for creating and implementing marketing and advertising campaigns for clients. A true business leader encourages creativity and fosters an environment where innovative ideas can flourish to stay competitive in the marketing industry.

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Champagne during my late teens ignited a profound passion that has traversed continents and cultures. This passion has found a vibrant outlet on Instagram, where I engage with fellow enthusiasts and wineries under the moniker @Delicious_Journey_. This platform not only fuels my wine knowledge but also forms connections that enrich my understanding of the art.

Beyond the boardrooms and creative pitches lies the story of one such creative woman, Ingrid Reyes, who has fueled her business knowledge at M&A Creative Agency USA. With a legacy extending to diverse sectors, including, the alcoholic beverage industry, food, technology, finance, telecommunications, and entertainment, Ingrid now oversees the agency's operations, fostering client relationships, and charting growth strategies.

A pivotal chapter began when I met my business partner, Luis Marques, Founder and Global CEO of M&A Creative Agency based in Europe, an exceptional award-winning European ad agency and we decided to join forces to launch a US division. M&A Creative USA specializes in the beverage industry, our collaboration was a perfect fusion of my passion for wine and my advertising prowess.

Below are the highlights of the interview: What inspired you to pursue a career in your industry, and how did you rise to your current position as CEO?

We opened offices in the U.S., spanning Napa Valley, New York, Los Angeles. The agency is headquartered in Portugal, in Lisbon and Aveiro, and we have offices in France as well, in Bordeaux, from each corner we're revolutionizing wine marketing on a global scale. At M&A Creative Agency, I lead operations, overseeing all clients, and mapping growth strategies.

Greetings, readers! I'm Ingrid Reyes, I'm thrilled to share my journey with you – the winding path that led me to the exhilarating world of advertising and ultimately to the pinnacle of my career as Partner and CEO, Americas of M&A Creative Agency USA. As I reflect on my story, I'm reminded of the remarkable experiences that have shaped me into advertising executive I am today.

As I reflect on my journey, I'm immensely grateful for the experiences that have molded me into the advertising leader I am today. My story is one of passion, growth, and an unrelenting commitment to excellence. It's an honor to share this narrative with you, and I'm excited to continue pushing boundaries and shaping the future of advertising and wine marketing.

With over two decades in the advertising industry, my dedication to excellence has become synonymous with my name. I take immense pride in not one, but two Golden Effie awards and a prestigious Silver Cannes Lion award, standing as a testament to my commitment to crafting campaigns that resonate and endure.

As a female CEO, what strategies have you used to overcome gender-related challenges in your career journey?

This influence brought CIO Business World to interview Ingrid, to know about her journey.

Yet, I've never allowed success to breed complacency.

Embracing the spirit of continuous growth, I recently embarked on a transformative journey at the Stanford Graduate School of Business. The Entrepreneurship Leadership Initiative Program empowered me with innovation and entrepreneurial skills, vital in navigating the dynamic landscape of advertising.

Beyond the boardrooms and creative pitches, my heart beats for the world of wine. A serendipitous encounter with

Embracing the role of a female CEO has been both a privilege and a challenge, and the strategies I've employed to surmount gender-related obstacles have been instrumental in shaping my career journey. Through perseverance, innovation, and unwavering self-belief, I've navigated these challenges with determination.

One key strategy has been to cultivate a strong sense of self-confidence. In a landscape where gender biases sometimes linger, I've learned to trust my abilities and insights. By consistently showcasing my expertise and asserting my viewpoints, I've demonstrated that gender does not determine competence.

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Connecting with like-minded individuals who champion diversity and equality has provided me with invaluable support and perspective. Engaging with mentors who have encountered similar challenges has armed me with strategies for navigating through complex situations.

Furthermore, I've embraced adaptability as a core strength.

The business world is ever-evolving, and my willingness to embrace change has allowed me to stay agile in the face of adversity. Flexibility has not only enabled me to overcome gender-related hurdles but has also positioned me as a force for innovation within my organization.

Lastly, celebrating my successes and milestones has been a personal strategy to combat imposter syndrome. As a female CEO, it's crucial to recognize and internalize achievements, reinforcing the fact that I belong in the leadership position I hold.

In essence, my journey as a female CEO has been about defying limitations, breaking stereotypes, and carving a path that future generations can follow without the same barriers. Through self-assuredness, strategic networking, adaptability, open dialogue, a commitment to diversity, and self-celebration, I've risen above gender-related challenges, embracing my role with pride, and forging ahead toward new horizons.

Can you highlight a significant achievement or turning point that played a pivotal role in your career trajectory?

I recount a pivotal juncture that carved a new path in my advertising career—a moment that stands as a testament to the fusion of determination, innovation, and seizing opportunities when they arise.

The scene was set at a high-stakes new business pitch presentation, I've done a dozens of them, this day the air buzzed with a blend of excitement and tension as I stood before a room filled with global auto industry veterans and decision-makers from Fiat who had just bought Daimler Chrysler. As I stood in the boardroom in the highrise of the Chysler building in Detroit, in a room full of automotive male executives, the tension was palpable.

The pitch was for a groundbreaking campaign that we had meticulously crafted, we had worked on it for weeks—a campaign that embodied the spirit of our agency and promised to redefine the way Chrysler engaged with their

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audience in the middle of a great recession in 2007.

As I stepped up to the podium, I felt a surge of confidence.

The months of tireless research, brainstorming, and refining the concept were about to culminate in this pivotal presentation. With every slide that I clicked through, I could see the spark of interest in the eyes of the clients, including Fiat's CEO. The narrative flowed seamlessly, capturing their attention and painting a vivid picture of the campaign's potential impact.

But it wasn't just the content that spoke volumes; it was the synergy among our team members that resonated. We had united our diverse strengths, perspectives, and skills to create something truly remarkable. The energy in the room was electric, and it was clear that our passion for the project was contagious.

The Q&A session that followed was a revelation. The clients' inquiries delved beyond the surface, probing into the heart of our strategy, our creative choices, and our commitment to pushing boundaries. It was during this exchange that I realized the immense power of our collective effort. The campaign wasn't merely a proposal; it was a testament to our ability to innovate and transform ideas into impactful solutions.

As the meeting concluded, the applause and accolades that echoed in the room were a validation of our hard work.

That moment marked a turning point, a profound realization that our campaign had not only resonated but had ignited a spark of excitement that set it apart.

Reflecting back, I understand that the turning point wasn't just about a single pitch—it was the culmination of years of dedication, lessons learned, and an unyielding belief in the power of creativity. It was a testament to the magic that happens when talented individuals collaborate seamlessly, pushing each other to achieve greatness.

As I navigate my advertising career that pivotal moment remains etched in my memory. It serves as a constant reminder that embracing challenges, believing in the strength of a united team, and harnessing the force of innovative ideas can shape not only campaigns but also entire trajectories. It's a story of perseverance, creativity, and the realization that seizing a pivotal moment can lead to a legacy of transformation and success.

How do you foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within your company?

Top 10 Outstanding Women CEOs Of 2023 Fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement isn't just a strategy—it's a way of life. At M&A Creative, we've woven these principles into the very fabric of our operations, igniting a creative spark that fuels our every endeavor.

It all starts with a mindset—a shared belief that complacency has no place in an industry as dynamic as advertising. We encourage our team to embrace change, to challenge conventions, and to see every project as an opportunity for growth. It's about cultivating a hunger for progress that propels us forward.

Transparency plays a pivotal role. We've dismantled the traditional hierarchy, creating an environment where ideas flow freely, regardless of one's title. From interns to senior executives, everyone's voice matters. This inclusivity not only fosters creativity but also empowers our team to take ownership of their contributions.

Innovation isn't confined to brainstorming sessions; it's woven into our daily operations. We allocate time for dedicated exploration—moments when team members can pursue passion projects or delve into emerging trends.

These initiatives are the seeds of innovation, often sprouting into groundbreaking campaigns that push the boundaries of creativity.

Learning is a cornerstone of our culture. We're committed to staying ahead of the curve, whether it's adopting cuttingedge technologies or understanding the pulse of consumer behavior. Regular workshops, training sessions, and industry conferences are part of our routine. By staying informed, we arm ourselves with the tools needed to create campaigns that resonate.

Our agency isn't just a workplace—it's a dynamic ecosystem where innovation thrives. The culture of continuous improvement isn't imposed from above; it's embraced collectively.

As I reflect on our journey, I realize that fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement isn't a destination; it's an ongoing expedition. It's about empowering our team to think beyond boundaries, to challenge norms, and to embrace every project as an opportunity to innovate. It's a commitment to staying agile, staying curious, and always pushing the envelope of creativity.

Can you share an example of a difficult decision you had to make and the factors you considered before making it?

Before the world of advertising, I had another career—in the realm of Interior Design, a childhood dream. I devoted six years to this realm, weaving together luxury and creativity with clients like The Four Seasons Santa Barbara and St. Regis Princeville, Hawaii, even Hollywood's luminaries.

Yet, amid all the success, a whisper of something unfulfilled lingered, an unfulfillment I couldn't fill. The yearning for the corporate world emerged, and a profound decision loomed. To start anew in advertising, a domain unfamiliar, it would bear its cost—beginning from ground-zero once more, starting a new career. Amidst the scales of career continuity and personal happiness, interior design fell short, and so a leaped into the enigmatic landscape of advertising which had been calling me.

Once I made that decision, I never looked back, a new career unveiled, I went from working in boutique agencies to global giants, each step added layers of knowledge and mastery. A journey from supervisor to director, VP to EVP, culminating in Director of North America and the Caribbean for Mindshare in New York, which is part of the formidable WPP conglomerate of global agencies and at that time #1 worldwide. Leading at the helm of renowned brands such as American Express, Kimberly Clark, and Sprint, and successfully leading diverse teams spanning North America and the Caribbean.

Then, a return to Los Angeles marked a pivotal turn. The birth of my marketing and communications consulting venture, a space that incubated growth.

Yet, destiny had another script in mind. An encounter with Luis Marques, the visionary behind M&A Creative Agency, rewrote the tale.

In our partnership, I found my stride, a home for my expertise as the CEO for North and South America. The trajectory bends in unforeseen ways, and as I reflect, it's evident that the heart always knows its path. From a childhood dream to scaling the summits of design and advertising, the journey continues with new stories to unfold.

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Top 10 Outstanding Women CEOs Of 2023

How To Determine If A Leader Deserves Your Alligence. “

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y daughter was murdered. I want to start a charity to support women in domestic violence.”

“My nephew died of a rare form of cancer and my sisters family lost everything trying to be there for him through the entire time. I want to start a charity to support families, so they don't need to worry about finances during this time.”

Compelling, right? These all sound like incredible causes to support, right?

I am frequently sought out by passionate, motivated, and well intended individuals wanting to start a charity. All are grounded in a deep desire to not have anyone else go through that hardship again.

I work with them. Usually for 1-2 sessions. Almost never any more.

funds potentially ever, and certainly not right away. No matter how much they believed in themselves and/or their cause, the amount of effort required to launch their charity has always been insurmountable. 

None of them have been willing to share limelight. I have suggested strategic partnerships to create exposure, build brand awareness etc. None wanted to share even a small amount of the success they 'knew' was coming.

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All have been unwilling to put themselves last. Even just for a short while. Most would say it's unfair to have to put yourself last anyway. Most will never understand it isn't about fair.

They all possess a compelling story, have a great deal of passion, and they've all had some form of charisma.

Occasionally those who see a need and wish to exploit it for their own gains come along as well. Those people are usually shockingly transparent about their desire to drive fancy cars and live a lifestyle of the rich and famous for bestowing their good deeds upon their community.

To create something new in the NPO world, you must lead differently. The success of your mission requires others to buy in. Literally, and for what? They receive nothing tangible in return. They receive nothing but the belief in the cause and personal joy in supporting it, and you. They must choose to follow, unlike when someone is employed and is obligated to.

I will work with them, for a fee. Usually 1-5 sessions (their belief in their superiority usually propels them further than those with altruistic intentions). Never more.

Due to this reality, using a leader in this situation is a great way to exhibit the three best ways to determine whether a leader deserves your allegiance, or not.

Both have three critical, and limiting, elements in common.

The true value of a leader is not the 'great founding story'.

Nor charm or charisma. All of those are smoke and mirrors.

The true value is in what lies behind the scenes where most people don't see.

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None have been willing to sacrifice what it takes to build something that is not going to generate sizeable

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Inspiration is the magnet through which most people are drawn to leaders and their cause in the first place. True inspiration doesn't fade days or weeks after hearing a moving story.

inspiring leaders have, is complete alignment between all 'faces'. Sure, there may be more profanity slipping out behind the scenes and occasionally relieving awkwardly placed itches, but again, it is about their actions.

Common inspirational traits i.e. bravery, humility, an inspirational story etc. move people but they are all utilized by most leaders including those who will utilize them to deceive.

I will dive into the three most important 'tells' which show those from the outside if the leader is a: worthy of following and b: whether the inspiration is true, or surface only.

If they promote honestly, are they honest? If they promote generosity, are they generous in the ways they are asking you to be? If they demand professionalism, do they conduct themselves in a way that makes you happy to have your name attached?

True inspiration is shown, not told.

We can all hear and inspirational story and be moved for a period, but the feelings fade and the motivation expires as our psyche becomes more accustomed to their story.

You can gain many clues to the quality of leader when you hear them speak.

When words and actions do not align, that is a red flag.

When words and actions do align, that is a leader to consider following. Why? Because it is incredibly difficult to live like that. To live by your word, you will be choosing being honourable over what is comfortable, over what is convenient etc. repeatedly. That is a leader, who will be true to the mission through mistakes, learning curves and all challenges. That is a leader you can count on.

Do they give credit for the good and take the blame for the bad?

Actively ask yourself the following questions. 

Do they live the strength they exemplified in their story?

Is the 'healing' they attested to fictional and told with vigor to create a response without it being truly achieved? What is the purpose of the story? What do they want from you?

This is something to watch carefully for. It is incredibly telling as most people will put self preservation ahead of everything. If you observe the opposite, you can be sure of two things. 

They have a sizeable amount of humility.

Are they allowing the audience to feel or are they ensuring the audience feels what they want them to?

Secure/ transparent leaders will tell their story and let you feel what you will.

Less secure leaders will speak about their feelings to curate the same feelings in you.

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They are willing to put the group ahead of themselves.

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They don't care about what is considered 'fair' when it comes to them taking blame and passing up on credit.

Protecting and elevating their team will always be most important.

Are they who they say they are?

In a world where everyone must sell themselves as a leader or risk never getting a promotion, being seen as an under achiever etc. It has become more important to critically decipher between those who are genuinely what they say they are and those to be wary of.

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When determining whether a leader is as stellar as they seem, I would counsel everyone to look beyond the public face and learn about what goes on behind the scenes. Many would argue their private life is not anyone else's business. I would agree, most times. However, when someone is asking you to trust them, give up your personal time, go out on a limb and align your name with theirs, it is now your business.

We all have different faces required to navigate different situations appropriately, but what I believe the most

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When you align yourself with an organization, remember you are aligning your reputation, and those of all connected to you as well.

Be careful. Be critical. Don't be impulsive and remember someone you can trust will not be afraid of you taking note of all the above.

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Top 10 Outstanding Women CEOs Of 2023

The Impact of Ethical Leadership on

Organizational Success T

he beauty of life is that we have the power to shape our own destiny. In a technological era this is very much possible where the role of leadership is shaping the destiny of organizations. Additionally, in this hunt of achieving success the leadership is also characterized by a commitment to moral principles and integrity, stands out as a cornerstone for sustained success in the corporate world. Let's highlight how leaders prioritize ethical considerations foster a culture of trust, collaboration, and long-term prosperity.

Building Trust and Credibility

Ethical leaders serve as a beacon of trust in the organizations. Thus consistently demonstrating transparency, honesty, and fairness, these leaders build a foundation of trust among employees, stakeholders, and customers. Also trust is the currency of effective leadership is led by individuals with unwavering ethical standards create an environment where people feel secured and motivated.

Fostering a Positive Organizational Culture The ethical leaders tone for organizational culture, employees witness behavior at the highest levels, and are more likely to embrace similar values. Thus positive culture prioritizes ethical decision-making ingrained in the fabric of the organization. This eventually enhances employee morale, engagement, and overall job satisfaction. This is aligned with ethical principles to collaborate effectively, drive innovation and adaptability, achieving long-term success.

Mitigating Risks and Enhancing Reputation Moreover ethical leadership serves as a robust risk management strategy. Additionally, leaders who make ethical decisions are less likely to engage in practices that could result in legal, financial, or reputational damage.

These organizations are led by ethical leaders are better equipped to navigate complexities, respond to challenges, and recover from setbacks. A strong ethical foundation also enhances the organization's reputation, attracting top talent, and investors who value integrity and responsible business practices.

Long-term sustainability The success is measured by financial gains to the long-term sustainability of organizations. The impact of decisions on various stakeholders, ethical leaders ensure that the organization is not only profitable but also sustainable. This approach involves environmental and social responsibility, contributing to a positive legacy, beyond the leader's tenure.

In conclusion, an ever-evolving business needs ethical leadership that inspire trust, shape positive organizational cultures, mitigate risks, and contribute to the long-term success and sustainability. As businesses face scrutiny and the demand for responsible practices grows, emerges not only as a moral imperative, but as strategic advantage. All in all organizations that prioritizes ethics in leadership are not successful, they are the architects of a better, sustainable future.

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