In a Changing World, Guiding with Foresight: Making a Mark through Purposeful Leadership (GGW Voices)
In the ever-evolving world of business, the need for impactful leadership is more crucial than ever. Enter Melissa Aarskaug, an executive leader with a unique approach to leadership that she calls the "visionary edge."
Aarskaug, the mind behind the podcast, Executive Connect, believes that leaders should ask better questions, tune into what their people need, and be adaptable. She emphasizes the importance of leading with purpose, thinking about legacy as something built daily, not left behind.
The visionary edge, as Aarskaug describes, is a leadership approach grounded in purpose, trust, and action. It equips leaders to move through uncertainty with confidence.
To develop this visionary edge, leaders can cultivate a clear, compelling long-term vision that inspires and guides their organization through rapid change. This involves anticipating future trends, challenging the status quo, and aligning the entire team toward common ambitious goals with strong communication and inspiration.
Key strategies to develop this visionary edge include defining a bold vision that looks beyond immediate opportunities and maps out where the organization should be in the next decade or more. Leaders must communicate this vision clearly and set concrete expectations and goals so every team member understands their contribution toward that vision.
Leading by example and inspiring is another crucial aspect. Visionary leaders demonstrate leadership qualities, motivate their teams, and cultivate leadership skills within others. Being adaptable and embracing change is essential, encouraging flexibility in goals and strategies to respond effectively to a dynamic business environment.
Balancing future focus with present details is also important, ensuring attention to current challenges to avoid alienating the team or missing critical issues. Fostering innovation and risk-taking by pushing boundaries and questioning traditional practices is key to driving growth and transformation.
Strategic thinking and knowing when to "switch gears" between visionary planning and practical execution are crucial skills for maintaining the visionary edge in fast-paced environments.
In today's world, where purpose-driven leadership is central to business success, Aarskaug's approach resonates with many. According to Deloitte's 2023 Global Human Capital Trends report, 79% of executives believe that purpose is central to business success, but only 34% say it's embedded into their leadership strategies.
Aarskaug's visionary edge is not about being perfect or having it all figured out, but about being present, clear, and committed. These leaders design their legacy with intention while breaking free from outdated models of leadership to redefine success.
Executive Connect, Aarskaug's podcast, is a platform for those ready to lead differently. It aims to help leaders break free from conventional thinking and design a legacy rooted in purpose, innovation, and impact. The podcast features curated series like "Executive Mindset & Resilience," "Tech Leadership & the AI Revolution," "Purpose-Driven Leadership & Career Reinvention," and "Corporate to Entrepreneur: Designing Your Legacy."
Through Executive Connect, Aarskaug shares her insights and experiences from various industries including banking, civil engineering, real estate, and casino gaming. With her unique approach to leadership, Aarskaug, a seasoned executive leader with experience in technology, cybersecurity, and compliance, continues to inspire and guide leaders on their journey to transform and succeed in a rapidly changing world.
Finance plays a significant role in implementing the visionary edge, as leaders need to allocate resources effectively and make strategic financial decisions to support their long-term vision.
Business leaders, driven by the visionary edge, should invest in aspects that foster innovation, risk-taking, and collaboration, recognizing that these are key elements for success in an ever-evolving business landscape.
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