Effective leadership is defined by actions, not just words. It goes beyond simply giving orders or holding a title; it involves embodying the principles and standards you wish to see in your team. When leaders actively participate and exemplify the qualities they expect from others, they build trust and inspire dedication. This practice cultivates a culture of accountability and mutual respect, showing that a leader is committed to leading by example.
At ANDER & Co, we strive to create an environment where excellence is a shared objective and people’s contributions—whether interns or SVPs—are celebrated. Join me as I explore how I endeavor to set the right example in the workplace.
Success Through Trust
Believing in your team’s abilities is essential. Early in my career, I encountered a culture where employees lacked trust, and leaders claimed all the success. This environment stifled my potential but taught me a valuable lesson: every experience offers a learning opportunity. This seemingly negative situation gave me a positive outlook on the importance of trust. A successful leader approaches trust in two ways: by placing confidence in others and by being trustworthy themselves.
Celebrating Mini Milestones
After more than two decades in the communications business, you come to recognize that there are wins at every level. What may not seem like a huge accomplishment to me can be a significant achievement for someone who is just starting in their career. Yes, it is certainly a cheerleading moment when a team member secures coverage in Forbes or Wall Street Journal; but the same goes for the junior associate who leads her first client call. Celebrating the small wins (and big ones) as a company is crucial for fostering enthusiasm, encouraging growth, and maintaining a positive work pace.
Fostering a Collaborative Culture
While any organization can label itself as “collaborative,” there is an art to building true camaraderie. A stronger team leads to greater success, and managers can inspire through the power of unity and togetherness. Investing in creating a sense of “team,” both personally and professionally, connects individuals and motivates them toward a shared goal. Engaging in fun out-of-office activities and brainstorming sessions (where every idea is welcome) cultivates a culture of open dialogue and elevates morale. At ANDER & Co, we work hard, together, but we also prioritize fun outings—from a candle making workshop and behind-the-scenes tour of the zoo, to group volunteering—that not only foster creativity and relaxation but also strengthen bonds among team members.
Embracing Continuous Learning
As PR professionals, we must stay updated on the industry’s constant evolution and actively pursue learning and growth opportunities. This not only enhances our ability to offer valuable insights and strategic counsel to clients but also sets a standard for our teams. Peer-to-peer learning is a core practice within the agency. Our team members frequently host workshops to share their expertise and passions with colleagues. Continuous learning is the foundation of growth—there’s truly no such thing as knowing it all!
Remain Humble
Being a boss is simple, but being a true leader is a rare quality. Leadership involves inspiring and influencing others, crafting a compelling vision for the future, and creating an environment where everyone can flourish. As my dad, a former business owner, often reminded me, “You are only as good as the people you surround yourself with.” True leaders recognize that their success is closely linked to their team’s performance. They connect with their team, understand their strengths and weaknesses, and lead with empathy.
Championing Work-Life Balance
To perform at their best, individuals must prioritize their mental and physical well-being. I firmly believe that neglecting personal growth can negatively impact professional success. Having worked in PR sectors where work-life balance was undervalued, I made it a key consideration when co-founding my own company nine years ago. As a mother of two and a business owner, I strive to excel in both roles. At ANDER & Co, we practice what we preach by offering our team wellness benefits and designated mental health days. Prioritizing this balance demonstrates our commitment to the holistic well-being of our team and sets a positive example for others to follow.
Walking The Walk
Ultimately, these strategies cultivate a vibrant and supportive work environment where every team member feels empowered and engaged. This approach goes beyond traditional management by weaving trust, recognition, collaboration, and personal growth into the very fabric of our workplace. By championing these values, leaders not only foster individual success but also forge a resilient, unified team capable of achieving collective goals. At ANDER & Co, we are dedicated to embodying these principles in our daily practices, ensuring that our leadership philosophy inspires a culture of excellence and innovation. We are committed to walking the walk and setting the standard for a thriving and forward-thinking workplace.
