Integrating People-Centric Values in Leadership

Do you see where I’m heading with this? Before you dismiss it, let me clarify. I have no patience for show-offs who solely promote themselves; I would never endorse superficial self-promotion. In fact, one of my greatest frustrations is dealing with narcissistic leaders who constantly try to outshine others. Their endless bragging can feel like an assault, lacking both listening skills and emotional intelligence—frankly, it displays a lack of class.

That’s not my approach. I prefer to maintain a modest and understated demeanor. However, it’s crucial for leaders to ensure their vision is centered on people and to connect every decision back to the human element. They must also vocalize this commitment.

Take that tedious operational plan you often discuss—reframe it. It’s not just a matter of figures or timelines; it’s about safeguarding your team’s mental health. For instance, you might say, “Monitoring this work plan closely is essential for our team's wellbeing. I recognize that our employees are overburdened, and we need to prioritize their welfare.”

If you are revising recruitment strategies, focus on nurturing talent from within. You could state, “Our recruitment process needs to be restructured for fairness and equity. We’ve overlooked our existing talent, and it’s important that we seize the chance to promote internally.”

This type of dialogue should be your foundation—not because you’re selling something, but because you are clearly expressing your “why.” As Simon Sinek famously stated, "Start with why." And in leadership, that “why” should always relate to your people.

The Essence of Action in Leadership

However, it’s important to remember that this is not merely about words. You must also embody these principles through your actions. Flowery emails and grand speeches lose their value if you don’t follow through. A true leader prioritizes their team, not the opposite.

Take a moment to reflect: How are you portraying your leadership style? Are you unintentionally giving off an all-business, no-heart vibe? Make it a priority to integrate your focus on people into every communication and decision, then ensure you substantiate it with action. Your team doesn’t only hear what you say—they observe what you do.