Text overlay on image reads, 'Leading with Heart or Embracing Human-Centered Leadership?', with three potted succulents on a white desk, a smartphone, a lined notebook, and a pen.

Are You Leading with Heart or Embracing Human-Centered Leadership?

Understanding your style is key to growth and driving organizational success. Two approaches are leading with heart and human-centered leadership.  Both emphasize empathy and a people-first mindset, but there are distinct characteristics. Let's explore both and how to harness both or decide which aligns best with your vision.

So, what's your leadership style?

Leading with Heart Leaders

  • Emotional Connections: Show genuine care for employees' personal and professional lives.

  • Authenticity: Share experiences and emotions, showing vulnerability.

  • Compassion: Emphasize kindness in all interactions.

  • Inspiration: Motivate through heartfelt communication and actions.

 Human-Centered Leadership

  • Prioritize Well-Being: Address employees' needs, aspirations, and challenges.

  • Active Listening: Provide empathetic, tailored support.

  • Empowerment: Grant autonomy and invest in skill enhancement.

  • Transparency: Maintain open communication.

 Embrace Both Styles or Stick to One? Here's Why Combining Them Could Be Advantageous

  • Higher Engagement: Combining styles to meet emotional and professional needs, boosting engagement, satisfaction, and productivity.

  • Flexibility: Switch between emotional connections and professional growth to address different situations and individual needs.

  • Enhanced Effectiveness: Integrating both styles inspires and motivates while fostering a supportive, inclusive work environment.

 When to Stay Within One Style

  • Organization Culture: Lead with heart if emotional connections are valued; choose human-centered leadership for professional growth and well-being.

  • Your Strengths: Lead with heart if you excel at emotional connections; opt for human-centered leadership if you empower and develop employees.

  • Team Needs: Lead with heart for emotional support and inspiration; use human-centered leadership for professional development and a supportive environment.

 Are you leading with heart or a human-centered leader?