The impactful leader believes that people are the most important asset. In that the leader believes putting people over profit is not a cliche, but it is a standard and a norm for impactful leaders. (Photo of me listening to a leader express her concerns). What does it mean when stated people are over profit?
It is not saying that profit is not important but those who impact the bottom line really matter. For example, it is the customer service representative who is considered the individual contributor but is the first point of entry or eyes and hands of the organizations. It is a middle level manager who leads the sales team in meeting or exceeding quarterly goals. Oprah Winfrey once stated that all of her guests on her daytime show over the twenty-five years asked one question at the end “how did I do”, and she determined that everyone desires to be valued and appreciated. Therefore, here are five ways to ensure your team, colleagues or clients know you value them:
Five Ways Leaders Can Become Impactful: The People Factor
- Treat people with respect — honor every individual regardless of title, role, or position. Respect is the foundation of trust.
- Listening without judgment — creates space for people to be heard, understood, and valued. Every voice matters.
- Invite input, especially when things do not go as planned — engage others in problem-solving and continuous improvement.
- Express appreciation consistently — acknowledge contributions and recognize the value people bring to work and the organization.
- Value people as individuals first — see and treat people as a person first and not the position; people perform best when they feel genuinely valued.
“Simon Sinek’s core leadership philosophy is “leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge”. He emphasizes that true leadership requires prioritizing the well-being, trust, and development of people over personal gain or rank.” If we possess this mindset and attitude then we become an impactful leader.
If you desire to become an impactful leader, I am here to serve and support “YOU” so you can become a profound and impactful leader!