Managing large teams, mitigating executive isolation and developing the right protocols for skip level associations, needs sustainable leadership traits. However, sustainable leadership is often confused with only “a leadership belief in sustainability” which impacts the way innovation and challenges are embraced in a growing organization of today and the future.
Sustainable leadership emphasizes long-term thinking, environmental and social responsibility, and the well-being of both current and future generations. It is rooted in the idea that leaders should not only focus on short-term profits and success but also take into account the broader impact of their decisions on people, the planet, and the organization’s longevity. Here are some key principles and characteristics of sustainable leadership for readers to “gain and grow” insights from:
- Long-Term Vision: Sustainable leaders have a clear and compelling vision for the future that extends beyond immediate gains. They consider the long-term consequences of their actions and make decisions that support the organization’s continued success over time.
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- Environmental Stewardship: Sustainable leaders prioritize environmental sustainability and seek to minimize the negative impact of their organization’s activities on the environment. They may adopt eco-friendly practices, reduce waste, and promote energy efficiency.
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- Social Responsibility: Sustainable leaders are committed to social responsibility, including ethical business practices, diversity and inclusion, fair labour practices, and community engagement. They aim to create a positive impact on society through their leadership.Transparency and Accountability: Sustainable leaders are transparent about their decisions and actions, and they hold themselves and their organizations accountable for their commitments and goals related to sustainability.
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- Innovation: They encourage innovation and creativity within their organizations to find sustainable solutions to complex challenges. This can include product innovation, process improvements, or new business models that also align with sustainability goals.
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- Resilience: Sustainable leaders understand the importance of building organizational resilience to adapt to changing environmental, social, and economic conditions. They prepare their organizations for potential disruptions and challenges.
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- Continuous Learning: Sustainable leaders are committed to continuous learning and staying informed about emerging trends, regulations, and best practices. They adapt their leadership approach as needed to address new challenges and opportunities.
- Lead by Example: Sustainable leaders lead by example, demonstrating their commitment to ethical work and sustainability through their own behaviour and actions. They inspire others within the organization to embrace such principles.
Sustainable leadership is not limited to a specific industry or sector but can be applied in various contexts, from entrepreneurship to gig working and government to non-profit organizations. It recognizes that sustainability is not just a goal but a fundamental aspect of responsible leadership in the modern world. This learning is elaborated in my book titled “Managing Large Teams” which can facilitate further learning about sustainable leadership.
Author-
Dr Rishi Kappal
Faculty for HR and Marketing
SIIB