Leadership is a journey that requires constant reflection, learning, and evolution. Throughout my years as CEO of liquidizer Group , I have developed a leadership philosophy
(after many ups and downs) based on inspiration and the development of autonomous teams. This philosophy is not only based on my personal experience but also on the lessons learned from influential leaders and thinkers, such as Efren Martínez, Viktor Frankl, Simon Sinek, Kim Scott, and John C. Maxwell, who have shaped my approach to leadership.
I share with you some lessons that I consider important for every leader, again, in my opinion:
Lead by Example and Develop Autonomous Teams
Table of Contents
My leadership philosophy has always been centered on leading by example. I firmly believe that leaders should be role models, demonstrating through their actions the values and principles they expect from their team. Inspired by Efren Martínez’s “The 7 Deadly Sins of Leaders,” I have learned to avoid pride and greed , opting instead for humility and altruism . Integrity and consistency in leadership are essential for building trust and respect.
In “Start with Why,” Simon Sinek emphasizes the importance of having a clear purpose . At liquidizer Group, our “why” is to create a space where our employees can believe, create, and thrive.
This purpose guides many of our actions and decisions, ensuring that every team member understands the meaning behind our goals.
The Importance of Meaning and Motivation
Viktor Frankl, in “Man’s Search for Meaning,” taught me that finding purpose in our actions is crucial to overcoming adversity. And, applying this to the context of leadership, this means we must help our teams find meaning in their work. By doing so, we not only increase their motivation and engagement, but we also provide them with a source of resilience in the face of challenges.
Motivation and inspiration are pillars of my leadership approach. I believe that good manners and open communication are essential for building strong and lasting relationships. Kim Scott, in “Radical Candor,” highlights the importance of candor and empathy in feedback. By balancing direct challenge with personal concern, we can foster an environment of trust and continued growth.
Adaptability and Continuous Development
John C. Maxwell, in “Leader shift” and “The 5 Levels of Leadership,” highlights the importance of adaptability and constant growth. Leaders must be willing to change and evolve alongside their organization. At liquidizer Group, I’ve tried to implement these principles, ensuring our team is as up-to-date as possible and surrounded by talented people who bring fresh knowledge and perspectives.
Building autonomous teams is another cornerstone of my philosophy . I trust that people will find their own way to achieve results, as long as they adhere to established processes. This trust not only empowers employees but also fosters innovation and creativity.
Forms Matter As Much As Results
I firmly believe that leading organizations are neither convenient nor beneficial for pursuing results alone, regardless of the means. In my experience, the way we treat our teams and the way we relate to others are just as important as the results we achieve. Respect and empathy are crucial in feedback, so it’s important to avoid abuse of power and disregard.
At liquidizer Group, we value attitude as much as aptitude. I believe that sometimes, a positive attitude, willingness to collaborate, and integrity can be more valuable than technical skills. It’s crucial that, in our journey toward achieving goals, we take care of the process and how we interact with others. The importance of relationships and mutual respect cannot be underestimated, as they are the foundation for a healthy and productive work environment.
Goal Setting and Long-Term Vision
Setting clear goals is key to the success of any organization. At liquidizer Group, we’ve defined our objectives with the vision of ensuring the agency’s longevity and evolution beyond my leadership. This vision aligns with Sinek’s principle of starting with “why.” It’s not just about achieving goals, but about understanding why those goals are important for long-term sustainability and growth.
My hope and goal is for liquidizer Group to be an agency that endures and evolves, providing a space of value for all our employees. This approach ensures that every achievement not only contributes to immediate success but also strengthens the foundation for future generations.
Conclusion
My leadership philosophy, inspired by these influential books as well as my experience, focuses on leading by example, motivating and inspiring teams, and developing a long-term vision based on purpose and meaning. At liquidizer Group, we strive every day to create an environment where every employee can grow and thrive, contributing to the agency’s continued success.
Through integrity, adaptability, and commitment to our core values, we are building a legacy that will endure beyond our own influence.
