The modern working world changes practically every day – and brings with it many new challenges. Managers must constantly adapt to this if they want to continue to lead successfully. The solution: Leadership 4.0.
Table of Content
What does Leadership 4.0 mean?
Our working world has changed rapidly in recent years. Old business models have become obsolete – the logical consequence is that old management styles are no longer a model for success either.
Leadership 4.0 aims to question previous management methods and develop them further in line with the new world of work. The goal: a working environment that promotes both the individual and the team – and at the same time keeps the company economically viable and successful.
The opportunities and challenges of the modern working world
Constant change and complex challenges are part of the modern working world. Digitalization, agile working models, diverse team structures and project work determine everyday business life today.
At the same time, companies are facing a massive shortage of skilled workers, employees need a high degree of autonomy – and are demanding this freedom.
What’s more, international competition is intensifying. Digital transformation, new trends and technologies demand flexibility and agility from companies and managers. If a company wants to remain competitive, it needs one thing above all: good leadership.
What qualities does the manager 4.0 need to have?
The modern manager needs a number of very specific skills. But don’t worry: many of these qualities can be developed.
Being able to change leadership roles flexibly: Boss, mentor and coach – anyone who wants to lead today must be able to switch between these three roles at any time. Depending on which leadership personality is needed at the time.
Be able to foster relationships: A high degree of empathy and genuine interest in team members is essential for leaders today. Appreciative behavior and regular communication are the cornerstones of successful leadership.
Eye level instead of rigid hierarchy: Leaders 4.0 share their knowledge and are also open to new ideas. They question themselves and are always open to feedback.
Leadership at a distance: Leaders must enable their employees to work independently and create freedom. Micromanaging is out of place when it comes to leadership today – delegation is irreplaceable.
Clear values and authenticity: Managers communicate their values clearly, take a stand and are aware of their strengths. This authenticity creates trust – a cornerstone of competent leadership.
Recognize and establish new technologies: Digital processes and tools can not only make leadership tasks easier, but also everyday working life. Tomorrow’s managers recognize and establish modern technologies.
Promote networks and cooperation: Modern leaders support their team in networking with each other and with outsiders. They create platforms that promote further development.
Enable work-life balance: Flexible working time models and measures for employee health are also part of the modern management style. Work 4.0 also means balancing everyday working life.
The advantages of Leadership 4.0
More innovation: Technology and the market are changing every day. The modern management style ensures that innovation in your company does not stand still.
More flexibility: If you want to remain competitive in our uncertain, constantly changing world, you need to stay flexible. Leadership 4.0 can do just that: it makes leaders agile and adaptable.
More employee retention: Finding good specialists is difficult enough these days – retaining them in the long term is the supreme discipline. Empowerment and independence ensure that your employees feel valued – and stay that way.
More use of resources: Remote work is ubiquitous these days. Better internal and external communication through Leadership 4.0 ensures that your resources are used effectively.
More employer attractiveness : Modern leadership is attractive – especially for young talent. The management style ensures that your company’s attractiveness as an employer increases.
More customer focus : Modern management styles also enable you to better meet the needs and requirements of your customers. The result: satisfied customers and strong customer loyalty.
The challenges of leadership 4.0
Problems with change: Change is almost always met with resistance. This requires patience and persuasion on the part of the leader.
Expanding skills: Hardly any leader has all the skills required for Leadership 4.0 from the outset. They need to undergo further training and be open to new ideas at all times.
Complex technology : The constantly evolving world of technology can be overwhelming. At the same time, every new tool raises questions about training and data protection.
Corporate culture: If companies want to take a step towards the future, the corporate culture must inevitably change too. A path that is not always easy.
Communication: Especially in remote teams, clear communication can lead to difficulties in times of change. Leaders must strive for transparency and clarity here.
How can Leadership 4.0 be implemented?
Improve communication: Use modern communication tools to promote an open and transparent communication culture within the company. Regular virtual meetings and updates improve the exchange of information and strengthen employee loyalty.
Enforce flexibility and agility: Allow your employees flexibility in working hours and choice of work location, where practicable. This increases commitment and satisfaction.
Promote self-organization and personal responsibility: Give your employees more autonomy and personal responsibility. This not only promotes commitment, but also the potential for innovation.
Support diversity and inclusion: Leadership 4.0 also means creating a diverse and inclusive work environment where all employees feel welcome and respected. Actively promote diversity and inclusion, for example through targeted recruitment measures and diversity training.
Leadership development and lifelong learning: The leaders of tomorrow need to continuously develop themselves to keep pace with constantly changing requirements. Therefore, invest in leadership development and offer regular training and development programs.
Establish a feedback culture: An open feedback culture is crucial for the success of Leadership 4.0. Managers should regularly give constructive feedback to their employees and also be able to accept feedback themselves.
triangility: Training the modern manager
triangility supports you on your way to becoming a manager 4.0. With our seminars, tailor-made training courses and programs, we accompany you in your development. We conduct our workshops in more than 50 countries and six languages, not only regionally but also internationally.
Core principles, competences and practices for modern leadership.
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