Having had the experience of heading up marketing on several brands and then leading the La Roche-Posay skincare brand to accelerated growth at L’Oreal, I learned a lot about leadership. When I left the organization, I wanted to impart some of my learning for others who would be the next generation of leaders. Today, I share my perspective on 6 top aspects that I found to be most important when it comes to effective leadership:
Communication: I was once told “the higher you go, the more clear and concise you need to be”. I learned how to select very intentionally what I wanted to say to convince others to move toward decision making. Be clear. Be concise. It will take you far.
Influencing: I learned my French colleagues are REALLY skilled in the art of influencing and debate, and I learned a lot from them in how to communicate ideas not only with rationale and data, but also with passion and conviction.
Accountability: I learned in a seminar that sometimes “You create the problems you complain about”. This small quote has helped me think about each frustrating issue I encountered and what my part was in it, to be able to control and change first what is in your own power to control.\
Authenticity: I learned managing is an art of balance of vision/goals, enablement, support, empathy and appreciation for unique talents and expertise. If you keep all these in mind, you will be a true, authentic leader.
Curiosity: Always be learning. Demonstrating curiosity leads to learning. For yourself, for your business or whatever work you may do, there is always something more that we can know. Each person you meet will know something that you don’t know. Having the curiosity to find out, creates connections and brings forth new knowledge for self-growth.
Community Network: I had the opportunity to work with so many diverse people and have a seat at the table with leaders from countries around the world. Being exposed to many perspectives was a gift and a true opportunity. I learned what the power of the network really meant and am grateful to all those I met.