Lessons in Leadership from Kamala Harris: What Today’s Leaders Can Learn

The 2024 United States election is shaping up to be a milestone, not just politically, but also as a reflection of our evolving perspectives on leadership. As we witness Kamala Harris, the first woman of color to run for President, navigate this uncharted territory, her journey provides us with rich insights on what it takes to lead authentically and effectively. At The Asbury Group (TAG), we see Harris’s journey as an invaluable case study.

Here are some key takeaways that leaders can apply to their own growth and leadership journeys.

1. Lead with "Warm Authority"

Many women leaders, particularly women of color, find themselves caught in a “double bind,” balancing between showing confidence without being “too aggressive” and warmth without seeming “too soft.” Harris has mastered what TAG team member Pascale Bourne calls “warm authority,” a style that fuses compassion with strength, creating a sense of approachability and power simultaneously.

"I love using this term ‘warm authority.’ The warmth means that I'm still human…that I can still show you my vulnerable side. The authority says, ‘I have the right to be here.’" - Pascale Bourne

Takeaway: Practice integrating warmth into your leadership. Show vulnerability, and don’t be afraid to let your team see the human side of you. This doesn’t detract from your authority; it enhances it by making you relatable and trustworthy. Leaders who embrace both sides create teams that are not only inspired but are also deeply committed.

2. Embrace Authenticity to Build Trust

For any leader, authenticity is a powerful tool to build trust. Harris’s approach shows us that being true to oneself isn’t just about personal fulfillment; it’s also a strategic asset in leadership. Authenticity allows others to see your real intentions and motivations, cultivating a culture of transparency and trust.

Women in leadership often face scrutiny on how they present themselves rather than on the substance of their work—a dynamic Dee Letrice describes with clarity:

"Women are too often policed on how we show up, rather than the substance of what we say. True leadership demands that we focus on the message, not the method." – Denitra Letrice R.

As Kailei Carr, Founder of The Asbury Group shares, many women in leadership have traditionally felt pressure to downplay our femininity and embody characteristics of men to get ahead. Seeing Kamala Harris embrace the fullness of herself has been refreshing:

“Never has the United States had a female leader at this level take what may have felt like a risky move to show multiple sides of herself. To show that as women, we don't have to lead ‘like men’ and that our softness can be our strength.” - Kailei Carr , Founder of The Asbury Group

Embracing authenticity is also a way to set a powerful example for any team, making leaders more credible and approachable.

Takeaway: Reflect on how authentically you’re showing up in your role. Are you allowing your team to see the real you? This doesn’t mean disclosing all of your deepest, darkest secrets, but rather being genuine in your actions and values. By leading with authenticity, you encourage your team to bring their real selves to work as well, fostering a more engaged and innovative environment.

3. Communicate with Clarity, Purpose, and Passion

Effective communication isn’t just about what you say—it’s also about how you say it. Harris’s ability to communicate with passion and conviction sets a standard for all leaders. She shows that clarity and purpose in one’s words create connection, while speaking with passion helps deliver impact. As Dr. Amber Wright, communication expert and executive coach on our team shares:

“Having clarity of purpose will always boost your credibility with an audience. Speaking with passion, no matter the occasion or size of the crowd, will aid in making speakers impactful and memorable.” – Amber L. Wright, Ed.D.

Takeaway: Reflect on the purpose behind your words before you speak. Are you connecting with your audience’s emotions, values, or challenges? Communicating in a way that allows people to connect with you and your emotion as a human strengthens relationships and builds loyalty. By speaking from the heart, you not only convey your message more effectively, but also inspire those who are listening.

4. Share Your "Why" to Foster Deeper Connections

Leaders who reveal their motivations and personal “why” create powerful connections. Harris’s ability to share her story—her roots, her motivations, and her challenges—allows her audience to connect with her on a deeper level. As Danielle Hawthorne shares:

"As a leader, have you taken the time to let your team in on what drives you? Do they understand the personal story behind your commitment to your work? Now is the perfect moment to share your 'why.' By revealing what connects you to your mission, you not only inspire but also foster a deeper connection." – Danielle H.

Takeaway: Don’t be afraid to let your team in on the personal reasons behind your work. Sharing your “why” helps people connect with the bigger picture, giving them a sense of purpose beyond day-to-day tasks. It also shows that your work is more than a job—it’s a mission, which can be incredibly inspiring.

5. Stay Grounded in Your Purpose and Impact on People

In high-stakes environments, it’s easy for leaders to get caught up in immediate demands and lose sight of their larger purpose. It is important for any leader to stay grounded in their mission and rooted in their purpose. Anika Apple shares:

“Leaders have a responsibility to import stress and export calm…cut through the noise and address what they know are true root issues–the systemic issues that threaten any foundation.“ – Anika Apple

Purpose grounds leaders in times of challenge, providing clarity and focus when it’s needed most. Purpose is also about the positive impact we have on the people around us. As Dianna Moore notes:

“Leadership isn't just about adhering to policies—it's about shaping and defining them. True leadership is defined by the people we serve and the lives we touch.” – Dianna Moore

Takeaway: Keep your purpose front and center in your leadership. When you stay focused on your larger mission, you’re better equipped to handle stress and make strategic decisions. Leaders who prioritize kindness and understanding create a culture of psychological safety, where people feel valued and supported, create more impact. Purpose-driven leadership inspires teams and keeps them aligned on what matters most, even when circumstances get tough.

Kamala Harris’s journey underscores that modern leadership is about balancing authority with empathy, embracing authenticity, and leading with purpose. As we continue to grow in our roles, let’s ask ourselves:

• How can we embody more compassion and authenticity in our work?
• How can we inspire those we lead by living our purpose with clarity and conviction?

These are the questions that will guide us as we shape the future of leadership.

How are you incorporating these lessons into your own leadership? Let’s continue the conversation—share your thoughts in the comments below.