Sunita, a seasoned marketing leader with 25+ years of experience, serves as an Independent Women Director at Jash Engineering Ltd., India.
In a conversation with Women Entrepreneur Magazine, Sunita Kishnani, Chief Marketing Officer at Softude, shares her views and thoughts on what role mentorship and networking play in leadership development as well as the most critical qualities a leader should possess.
How can we stay adaptable and resilient in the face of evolving challenges in the leadership role?
Staying adaptable and resilient is crucial in leadership because only a resilient leader can navigate uncertainty, handle failure, manage stress, inspire teams, build trust, and encourage innovation. Drawing from my own experience, I've found several strategies helpful in effectively addressing challenges, which I believe would be beneficial for budding leaders as well.
Firstly, cultivating a growth mindset has been instrumental for me, viewing challenges as opportunities for growth and learning. It is essential to know that not every strategy will yield success; out of 100 actions, only a few may prove effective. As a leader, I understand the inevitability of setbacks and focus on finding solutions rather than dwelling on problems.
Secondly, remaining receptive to new ideas and feedback has been pivotal. Adapting strategies based on evolving circumstances has allowed me to stay agile and responsive in leadership roles.
Thirdly, building a strong support network of mentors and peers who can provide invaluable guidance during challenging times has been essential. Additionally, prioritizing relationships, staying informed about industry trends and best practices, and fostering innovation within the team while keeping sight set on the progress of your goals are all crucial aspects of effective leadership
One instance that stands out is when I transitioned from the role of Assistant Vice President of Marketing to Chief Operating Officer at an online pharmacy startup. This shift demanded not only a change in mindset but also acquiring a new set of skills. I swiftly adapted to the nuances of operations management, regulatory compliance, and team leadership. By embracing the challenge and leveraging my experience in sales and marketing, I successfully navigated the transition, driving operational efficiency and growth for the omnichannel pharmacy startup.
Lastly but most importantly, prioritizing self-care ensures I maintain my physical and mental well-being, enabling me to lead with resilience and adaptability.
In your opinion, what are the most critical qualities a leader should possess?
In my opinion, effective communication is fundamental for transparency and honesty in leadership, much like its role in relationships. Despite its apparent simplicity, busy managers or executives may overlook the need to keep others informed about their actions and their impact. Leaders must effectively convey ideas, provide direction, and share updates to foster team involvement and loyalty.
Additionally, integrity is crucial for building trust within teams and stakeholders. Empathy enables leaders to understand team members' needs, concerns, and perspectives, creating a positive work environment. Adaptability allows leaders to navigate change and uncertainty, adjusting strategies to meet evolving challenges. Finally, resilience helps leaders bounce back from setbacks and maintain focus in adversity, collectively contributing to effective leadership that inspires, motivates, and empowers teams to achieve shared goals.
According to you, what role did mentorship and networking play in leadership development?
Mentorship and networking have been really important in shaping my leadership journey. My mentors helped me a lot with skills like communication, problem-solving, and decision-making. They gave me challenging tasks and feedback that helped me improve and feel more confident. I think mentors are like shock absorbers in the ups and downs of leadership. They create a safe space where you can make mistakes and keep getting better.
A good mentor is someone who's always there to help, thinks deeply about things, and listens well. They give practical advice and support you emotionally when work gets tough. Networking is also super important for leadership growth. It helps you meet different people, learn new things, and stay updated on what's happening in your industry. By connecting with peers, mentors, and industry experts, you can learn a lot and find new opportunities to grow.
Through mentorship and networking, I've learned a ton, avoided mistakes, and made meaningful connections that have helped me move forward in my career. I want to thank all my mentors for helping me become the leader I am today.
In the pursuit of leadership roles, what are the common obstacles we should face, and how did you address them?
I have been fortunate not to encounter many obstacles, but "I've faced challenges such as breaking the glass ceiling, balancing work and life - particularly in the initial years of marriage and while raising children - and occasionally dealing with gender biases, though never experiencing imposter syndrome. I have addressed these challenges by relying on my passion, determination, and focus on building my skills and confidence.
I've often taken proactive steps to advocate for myself and demonstrate my value through tangible results and accomplishments. This proactive approach has garnered the respect and recognition of my peers and superiors.
Despite advancements in gender equality, women continue to be underrepresented in sales and leadership roles, particularly at the highest organizational levels. Breaking the glass ceiling has been a significant hurdle for me.
Balancing work and family responsibilities has also been demanding. Women are often expected to be available all the time and take on caregiving roles, which can lead to burnout and stress when combined with demanding leadership positions.
Despite these challenges, I've remained determined to succeed and have paved the way for other aspiring female leaders. Through perseverance and resilience, I've strived to overcome barriers and serve as an inspiration for others aiming to break into leadership roles.
In your experience, how has diversity and inclusion played a role in shaping your leadership approach?
Diversity and inclusion have been central to my leadership approach, driving creativity, innovation, and better decision-making. For instance, by fostering a culture of inclusion within my teams, I've been able to tap into the diverse perspectives and experiences of team members, leading to more robust solutions and outcomes. Additionally, as a female leader in the tech industry, I've championed diversity and inclusion initiatives. I advocate for equal opportunities and representation for all.
For me, leadership is not a destination but a journey, marked by challenges, growth, and transformation. By staying adaptable, empathetic, and visionary, and by leveraging the power of mentorship, networking, and diversity, women can navigate the complexities of leadership and drive meaningful change in our organizations and industries. As we continue to evolve and innovate, let us embrace the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead, knowing that with resilience and determination, anything is possible.
