Embracing Authenticity in Leadership

In today's dynamic organisational landscape, being genuine has become a cornerstone of effective leadership. Authenticity involves understanding and staying true to one’s core values, consistently reflecting them in actions and decisions, and fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are not just accepted but celebrated.Defining True LeadershipAt its essence, authentic leadership is about being genuine and transparent. 

Limitless: Rising Above Bias

The year was 2003. The day was ‘Placement Day’ at my communications management school in Ahmedabad, India. I was interviewing for my first full-time job, incredibly eager to enter the corporate world and make my mark. At that time, Ogilvy & Mather was the most prestigious ad agency in the country. I wanted to work there so badly, I could taste it. The interview with the Country Head - Strategic Planning was going swimmingly well. We had a rhythm and it was palpable. 

The Power of Support

INSEAD's Limitless campaign celebrates women who have dared to push beyond their own limits and conquer obstacles in their lives to create positive change. We also recognise that change would not have been possible if it wasn’t for the support systems they relied on – people who shared their lives, the weight of their responsibilities, and the ups and downs of their friend’s or loved one’s journey to success.

#22 - Pushing Beyond Your Career Limitations

We live in a world of constraints - some are physical, some cultural but they are always personal. These mindsets limit our human potential to achieve great things in life and hinder experiences that not only enrich ourselves but also benefit society at large. INSEAD celebrates women who have dared to push beyond their own limits and conquer obstacles in their lives to create positive change. In today's episode of In The Know we celebrate the incredible feats of our five guests with a digital roundtable discussion.

Excellence, Not Perfection

"Leadership is about enjoying the beauty of your own imperfection." Viviana believes we are witnessing a pivotal shift towards gender equality, asserting that women and men are equally capable of achieving excellence. She attributes this potential to a combination of the right mindset and competencies. Her time at INSEAD profoundly contributed to her growth, enriching her personal development and enhancing her leadership capabilities.

Focusing on Opportunities

"I refuse to let factors such as gender, nationality, and academic background get in the way." Ausie feels strongly about what society expects from women, the pressure that exerts, and how she turns it into an opportunity for growth. Her aim is to become an environment and technology consultant.

Imagine It, Achieve It

"Make your intention known. It's important, if you've got a career goal, to let it be known." In Nathalie’s opinion, women need to be more assertive and confident about the value they bring to the organisation. Don't let others limit your horizons! Her message to young people is that there is ‘an infinite runway’ ahead of them to achieve their dreams.

Be Your True Self

"Authenticity never goes out of style." Whether it’s her ethnicity, her gender or her ambition, Oyinade has realised that being true to herself is key. Having diversity in a team gives it the unique advantage of multiple different perspectives.

Designing a Life You Love

"I used to think I had to prove myself. Now I know it’s about going beyond, to achieve impact." Daniele believes that the need to demonstrate our worth is a vestige of entrenched gender codes. To create a life we love we must aim to make a difference – by staying curious and interested in learning, and growing, continuously.
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