Leadership Starts at Home: Insights with Jawad Gilani on Trust, Ego, and Adaptability

The Hidden Entrepreneur Show with Josh Cary

Every day, I encourage my kids to be the best leaders they can be, and it got me thinking about what authentic leadership entails. I'm thrilled to share this episode featuring Jawad Gilani, a luminary in the HR field and a valued member of the Forbes HR Council. Jawad is also a leadership coach from Harvard and an HR consultant and trainer. He and I started this enlightening conversation by exploring the idea that leadership begins at home. He shares his perspective on caring for others, leading by example, and fostering trust, emphasizing that you don't need a formal title to be an effective leader. It's about creating spaces where everyone feels safe and valued.

We then tackle the subtler aspects of leadership, with Jawad explaining how ego can be a destructive force, stifling creativity and growth. He advocates for a more inclusive approach that encourages team members to find their solutions and generate new ideas. From his own educational experience in North America and his observations on the global talent pool, particularly in tech industries like Pakistan's, Jawad provides an engaging narrative on how the career landscape is shifting from traditional paths to more dynamic fields.

Finally, we dive into the complexities of leadership in today's ever-changing world. Jawad and I discuss the challenges of motivating and engaging a multi-generational workforce, especially amidst evolving workplace dynamics and technological advancements. Through inspiring anecdotes and invaluable advice, we reflect on the importance of maintaining an open mindset, respecting young employees as future leaders, and adapting leadership styles to the diverse capabilities of team members. This episode is packed with practical takeaways designed to help you enhance your leadership journey, no matter where you are.