Leadership Begins with the Right Mindset

The first step towards establishing a good company culture is the attitude that the leaders have, according to the CEO of Levi’s, Michelle Gass. While speaking to NBC News, Gass revealed that being a leader is much more than just being focused on meeting objectives related to profit. The essence of leadership, as she sees it, is creating a workplace where the personnel feel respected and encouraged.

Leaders create an atmosphere within the organization by setting an example of the qualities that they would like their staff to adopt. They are the ones who are responsible for creating the culture of an organization by their own behavior.

A good workplace is one where employees can work with confidence and also ensure the future prosperity of the company.

Trust Forms the Foundation of Strong Teams

The important principle of leadership, which is noted by Gass, is the one of trust. As she says, successful companies are made up of relationships based on the fact that employees are trusted to make decisions and be responsible for the results of their actions.

Instead of constant control, leaders need to provide their subordinates with responsibilities and confidence. Such an approach will stimulate innovation since employees will be free to express new ideas and take risks.

It also leads to higher engagement as people understand that they matter and thus have something to engage into.

Listening Is an Essential Leadership Skill

It is important for Gass to point out that efficient leaders give equal attention to listening and talking. Listening to the employees is crucial for understanding various viewpoints and making better decisions.

She emphasized the need for curiosity and openness in any situation no matter what position the leader holds. Every single employee may share useful information that will help enhance performance and cooperation within the company.

Furthermore, such communication will make the employees feel appreciated and therefore create a good atmosphere in the office.

Purpose and Values Should Guide Every Decision

As per Gass, the best functioning of organizations is achieved through the application of its mission and values within decision-making on a daily basis. The values of an organization should impact how it hires people, develops leaders, deals with customers and develops strategies instead of being just written down on paper.

If employees understand the mission of an organization well, they will be better able to link their work with the goals of the organization.

Culture Requires Continuous Attention

As Gass puts it, establishing a positive organizational culture is an ongoing activity. This activity requires continuous effort in terms of investment, communication, and involvement of leaders in communicating with subordinates.

Organizations that appreciate both people and performance will have a greater probability of succeeding in recruiting new workers and retaining the existing ones as well as adapting to the shifts in the market environment. Positive organizational culture, which is built around trust and communication, is the foundation of sustainable development.

Gass’ leadership philosophy is built upon the assumption that successful businesses emerge from successful cultures, where employees are enabled and motivated.