In Part-4 of Leadership Mother Tongue, we explored the “Leadership Self-Reflection Framework” and the “The Inside-Out impact compass” framework that helps to assess the current state and accelerate the journey towards the desired state or Goal of the leader.
Expand your leadership style by mastering complementary approaches and balancing the two. Few examples below will help you understand the same.
- “Results and Metrics Oriented ”vs. “People and Empathy”- leader ensures metrics are achieved but pays close attention to employee engagement and morale. Practices active listening and understanding diverse perspectives. Example: A leader may prioritize breaking down project milestones and tracking progress via measurable KPIs. Leading with a “what needs to be achieved” mindset, ensures quantifiable results too. However, if the same leader focusses on employee well-being and engagement while balancing workload demands and helps in adjusting deadlines or deliverables when a team member is facing a personal crisis, the leader will be considered Empathetic and can foster collaboration and trust among colleagues.
2. “Tactical or operationally” strong vs. “Strategic Thinking”: The leader navigates between addressing immediate operational needs and aligning these efforts with long-term goals. Example: Maybe there is an immediate need to solve a production or configuration bottleneck (tactical or operational focus). Once the problem is solved, focusing on investing in automation technology to avoid similar issues in the future will become strategic.
a. A variation of this and the next step is connected to communication. “Detail oriented communication to strategic communication” based on the audience. Communication about solving immediate customer escalation to maintain client satisfaction with immediate objectives, data and facts with the team will be considered “Operational” while “Advocating and investing in automation technology for adoption” to drive long-term efficiency with a vision that guides the organization toward long-term success will be considered strategic in the same situation.
The most common ask I get from my leaders is – “I want to change BUT without compromising on my core values and principles.” Leaders think this is not possible but not really. Yes, it is challenging though, if you don’t have the right approach (or framework). This is where DRS comes into play.
Don’t you want to transform? Then you should check out the DRS framework and connect with me. It acts as a “Clarity Compass” to identify your options, leverage your strengths and resources without compromising on your core values and principles.
D.R.S = Define, Refine and Shift.
Each pair reflects the dynamic nature of leadership, requiring intentional balance to adapt and thrive in diverse situations. Each leader should delve deeper into each pair based on the stakeholder feedback and business dynamics expected of their respective roles. Balancing these opposing leadership dynamics is crucial for developing a well-rounded and adaptive leadership style that can navigate complex organizational challenges. It helps create a flexible and resilient leadership approach capable of navigating the conflicting demands of contemporary organizations.
Closing Thoughts: The Power of a Multilingual Leader
“To handle yourself, use your head; to handle others, use your heart.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
Just as learning multiple languages expands your ability to connect with diverse people, evolving beyond your Leadership Mother Tongue creates more impactful connections across stakeholders. A multilingual leader understands their default style but adapts fluently to the needs of their team, peers, and organization.
Leadership Mother Tongue is more than a concept—it’s a tool for building trust, resonance, and impact. By aligning your authentic leadership style with the needs of those around you, you can inspire action, build connections, and lead with purpose.
“Leadership is not about changing who you are. It’s about becoming more of who you are with the right balance of adaptability.” – Kas Venkatesh
Embracing your LMT. Stretch beyond it. Become the leader who not only communicates but resonates. Foster deeper connections with those around you without compromising on your core values and principles.