Leaders, teams and individuals alike have wrestled with the question, “How do you inspire people to bring their most creative and innovative selves to work?” According to Kristi Hedges, a Fortune 500 leadership coach and author, the key is all about the culture.
Hedges provided a roadmap to cultivate a culture where inspiration is given, encouraged and fostered in her recent installment of ISACA’s Member-Exclusive Speaker Series. Hedges—a global speaker who incorporates cutting-edge research, real-world stories and actionable tools into her thought-provoking and interactive engagements—shared her guide to “Cultivating Inspired Leaders” as part of ISACA’s initiative to invite industry thought leaders to share inspiring conversations with members.
ISACA members earned 1 CPE credit while accessing Hedges’ expert insights, practical examples, lively discussions and actionable takeaways on behaviors to implement. The takeaways from this conversation are designed to share what inspiring people can do that others can replicate, covering the key facets of inspiration that can change lives.
Hedges delved into how to shape your presence to reflect your core values and build credibility. She detailed what kinds of communication strategies attendees could utilize to enhance their personal impact and how to use passion and energy to excite others. Hedges advocates for leading through purpose and helping others to find meaning in their work.
A few of Hedges’ key points included:
- creating conditions for those to be inspired around us, including yourself;
- intentionally modeling the emotions, care and respect you want others to have;
- building potential in others with simple, positive remarks;
- leading others through the uncertainty and discomfort of change;
- shifting your listening by being curious rather than closed or judgmental;
- and finding your power by identifying your purpose.
In response, community members noted the importance of preparing a plan while remaining adaptable. In addition to gauging an audience’s reactions and feedback, attendees indicated that it is critical to offer creative, practical steps toward desired goals to engage leaders. Participants emphasized that the focus should always be on the path to success and desired outcomes, so flexibility and acknowledgement of others’ concerns are key elements of an inspirational leader. Attendees also highlighted that challenging company culture should come from a place of curiosity, so presenting a message with authenticity and honesty should be at the forefront.
For additional insights into the exclusive conversation, the community’s commentary and feedback were compiled with Hedges’ key points in a shareable infographic, which can be found below:
To participate in the next Member-Exclusive Speaker Series event, join the ISACA community today and sign up in advance to attend the next session.
Editor’s note: ISACA members can access full videos of recent Member-Exclusive Speaker Series events here.
