People and Digital Transformation
The Surprising power of people and skills in the digital age
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CHIEL TER WAL
Business Director 'Organization & Business transformation", Ordina
THE DIGITAL ERA REQUIRES LEADERS WHO ARE MORE HUMAN, NOT LESS.
In the age of automation and artificial intelligence, machines are taking on increasingly complex tasks. But there's one area where they cannot compete with human leadership: people skills.
Traditional leadership skills are no longer sufficient to guide teams through the uncertainties and opportunities of digital transformations. Emotionally intelligent leaders have the traits and abilities needed to support their teams through transformative times. By offering support and empathy, they know how to nurture strong teamwork. And they connect better with clients because they are able to build authentic relationships with them.
Think back to your favorite teacher, suggests Chiel. They inspired your respect and won your trust by making you feel valued, believed in, and understood. They possessed finely tuned people skills and emotional intelligence. In the same way, great leaders get the best out of their teams by making them feel valued, believed in, and understood.
Self-awareness as starting point
LEADERS WHO TRULY WANT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE MUST FIRST UNDERSTAND THEMSELVES, THEIR EMOTIONS, AND THEIR OWN STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES
Only then can they harness the power of their people skills and lead their teams to success in the digital transformation age.
Self-awareness enables leaders to regulate their own emotions and reactions, leading to more effective communication and decision-making. It also allows them to empathize with and understand the emotions of their team members - creating a more supportive and collaborative working environment. And by identifying and addressing their own biases and blind spots, leaders can foster a more inclusive and equitable workplace.
Skills you need to thrive in the digital world
VULNERABILITY
Leaders willing to listen, learn, and adapt, create more inclusive and collaborative cultures, which are essential in the digital age. By acknowledging their own limitations, they create space for their team members to share their ideas and perspectives. In turn, this nurtures continuous improvement and growth. It also creates psychologically safe environments, improving mental health and wellbeing.
EMPATHY
In times of rapid change, employees may feel uncertain or overwhelmed, and it's up to leaders to provide guidance and support. Empathy allows leaders to understand their team's concerns and to respond with compassion and flexibility. By understanding the perspectives of different team members, leaders can make more informed and inclusive decisions that consider diverse needs and interests.
PURPOSE
A clear sense of purpose is essential for leaders to motivate their teams effectively in the digital transformation era. Purpose is not just a feel-good concept; it's critical for navigating today's rapidly changing business landscape. By guiding every decision and action with purpose, we can lead our teams to success and fulfillment, even if everything around us might be in flux.
ADAPTABILITY
The way we work is changing; our jobs are evolving in new and unexpected ways. We need to develop the ability to learn, unlearn, and relearn as fast as the world around us changes. We need to nurture people who welcome new opportunities. As leaders, this means staying open-minded about how we develop our people, namely, by encouraging experimentation and giving people the freedom to make - and learn from - mistakes.
CREATIVITY
Creativity gives humans a clear advantage over machines and software. Digital tools and platforms provide new ways of creating and sharing content; creativity is no longer a luxury but a necessary skill for success. The ability to generate original ideas, communicate them effectively, and collaborate with others will become increasingly invaluable.
Ultimately, it is up to us to decide how we want to be remembered. Will we be recognized as a technical expert, or as a leader who fosters an environment of courage and risk-taking that enables innovation?
At Ordina, we’re here to help you and your teams thrive during digital transformation. Write to chiel.ter.wal@ordina.nl or visit www.ordina.com to learn how, and help you stay ahead of change in an ever-changing business landscape.
