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Jayhawks in leadership positions are everywhere you look, including through the Jayhawk Career Network. KU Alumni, in partnership with SumnerOne, is highlighting Jayhawk leaders who are models for others in their industries with our “Copy the Leader” program.
What do you do in your work?
I concentrate my expertise in communications, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) and talent development in service to employee representation, success, and well-being.
What are the qualities of a good leader?
A good leader is authentic, caring and inquisitive. An authentic leader boldy embraces and generously shares their unique lived experiences and perspectives, confidently knowing that their story is their power and that their authenticity is the permission others need to be and do the same. A caring leader treats others with empathy, kindness, and respect; they remind us that we are human beings, not human doings. And an inquisitive leader asks questions, is curious, and possesses a growth mindset. They know that change is inevitable; innovation is intentional; and people in all their complexity are the only true differentiator in the workplace.
How do you practice leadership at your job?
My leadership and influence are founded on and shaped by two main characteristics: (1) a desire and an intention to be a valuable business partner and (2) an ability and a passion for investing in others’ career journeys. Valuable business partnership is centered on considerate and quality (internal) customer service. I approach all my work relationships from a mindset of making their experiences with me easier and more enjoyable vs. getting what I need / want from them. And investing in others’ career journeys is The Work of leadership. Particularly as formal leaders, we are no longer the doers but the advocates, champions, and enablers of others to do their best.
What makes a team or group successful?
A group / team is successful when galvanized and guided by altruism, hedonism, respect, and shared purpose. We do our best work together when we help others, have fun, admire and allow differences, and move in the same direction.
How can leaders in your industry help their organizations adapt to change?
As leaders, we are called to embrace and harness change for action and for good. We are in a powerful position to remind our teams and our organizations, through both actions and words, that change is part of life; that it presents us with opportunities to grow and learn; that we have successfully worked through change before; and that we will do it again, together. Our aversion to change cannot be assuaged by more processes and steps, charts and numbers, but by clear, continuous communication, by an acknowledgement of and accommodations for potential impact(s) based on human difference, and by intentional investment in people developing new knowledge and skills required by change.
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