Day 136 of 1095: Being Human First

The Journey Begins

On my 136th day as a leader of a fledgling startup, I found myself in a familiar situation—a recruitment meeting. This was not my first rodeo; I had been an entrepreneur, manager, and even a commander in the military. But this day was different. It wasn't about strategy, targets, or performance metrics; it was about empathy, kindness, and respect.

The Initial Encounter

The candidate, Rachel, was visibly nervous. Her resume was impressive, but her hands trembled as she shuffled her papers. It was then that I realized—I wasn't there to judge her qualifications. I was there to understand her story.

The Human Element

I leaned forward and asked, "Rachel, tell me about a time when you felt truly proud of your work." Her eyes lit up. She spoke passionately about a project that had nothing to do with technical skills but everything to do with teamwork and perseverance. It was a moment of pure human connection, and it was then I knew she was the right fit—not just for her skills, but for her character.

Core Message

Before we are entrepreneurs, managers, or commanders, we are human beings. This simple truth is often lost in the race to achieve, to be the best, to win. But it is this truth that can transform organizations, foster loyalty, and drive real success. Treat people with the respect you would expect for yourself.

The Power of Empathy

Incorporating empathy into your leadership style isn't just a nice-to-have; it's a necessity. Empathy builds trust, and trust fosters innovation and collaboration. When your team knows you value them as individuals, they are more likely to go the extra mile, think creatively, and remain loyal.

Practical Steps

How do you bring this human-first approach to life? Here are some actionable steps:

1. Listen Actively: Pay attention to what your team members are saying. Show genuine interest in their lives and aspirations.
2. Show Appreciation: A simple "thank you" can go a long way. Acknowledge the hard work and efforts of your team.
3. Be Transparent: Honesty builds trust. Keep your team informed about what's happening within the organization.
4. Support Growth: Provide opportunities for professional development. Show that you are invested in their future.
5. Create a Positive Environment: Encourage a culture of collaboration and mutual respect. Make your workplace a place where people want to be.

The Impact

On that 136th day, Rachel became a vital part of our team. Her contributions went beyond her job description; she brought a sense of unity and purpose. And it wasn't just about Rachel. By treating each team member as a valued individual, we built a culture of respect and trust that propelled us forward.

Let's be human first, always.

Eliav.