Leading with Purpose

Leaders of thriving organizations have something in common. They lead with intention, putting purpose first. When an organization or an individual has purpose as their motivation, it allows then to connect to that purpose in a meaningful way. Leaders who lead with purpose impact those around them through their passion, inspiring them to be purpose-driven as well.?

Purpose – Redefining Principles of Governance

For over a decade, there has been a movement to redefine principles of corporate governance. When I went to business school, way back in the 90s, I learned that corporations existed principally to serve shareholders. But this concept has evolved and now calls for corporations to serve all stakeholders: employees, customers, suppliers, communities, and yes, shareholders. This shift has been encouraged by leading investors, such as Blackrock CEO Larry Fink, and advanced by influential business groups, such as The Business Roundtable.

Fink advocates that businesses forgo short-term focus and prioritize their sense of purpose. “Without a sense of purpose, no company, either public or private, can achieve its full potential.” A CEO’s most important job is to be a steward of the organization’s purpose. Academics have been able to successfully show the link between purpose and outstanding business performance. As EY Global Chairman and CEO, Mark Weinberger stated, “Businesses today are finding that doing good also means doing well.”

Leaders with Purpose

We all know that an organization can’t fulfill its purpose unless its leaders are living that purpose. They need to lead with purpose.

In a recent conversation with Laura Stone, a strategy and leadership development consultant, executive coach, sought-after keynote speaker and author, we talked about what it means to lead with purpose. Stone stated, “Most importantly, it is about impact and intention. Leaders are very conscious and awake to their role and the power they hold. It is in how they wield and use that power for good, helping to elevate others and facilitate the growth and development of their people who are closest to the front lines. It is also evident in how they enable customers to be happy. I like to think about inversing the hierarchical organizational chart. Instead of a CEO thinking that they're on top, they have to look at themselves at the bottom and say, ‘how do I serve our people?’ Because the people on the front lines are really the most important constituents. We have to make sure we are taking care of them and removing obstacles so they can be successful."

To see the full interview with Laura, click the image below.

Every leader knows that you can’t achieve your business goals without your employees. Leaders who demonstrate emotional intelligence, awareness, and sensitivity to others, will serve the needs of both the organization and their people.?

Purpose creates well-being

As I have previously written, there is a direct connection between an individual’s sense of purpose and their overall well-being.

When an organization has purpose, and a leader is connected to that purpose, they can help the individuals in their organization connect to their personal purpose. ?

When organizations and people have a connection to purpose, they thrive.