Is the Future of Business ‘Female’?
The Cheshire Magazine asked senior members of HM3 Legal what they believe are the leadership traits required for a business to flourish
What are key leadership traits?
Richard: Leadership characteristics are rapidly changing. Traits typically referred to as ‘female’ or ‘feminine’ including empathy, collaboration, emotional intelligence, and communication skills are vital.
While not exclusive to any gender, these attributes have historically been associated with women and are reshaping what modern leadership looks like. Gone are the ego-hungry days of David Brent. Thankfully!
How do these traits contribute to effective leadership?
Caroline: So-called female traits bring a refreshing dynamic, fostering a harmonious and inclusive approach that is reshaping company culture. This is in action at HM3 as most of our lawyers are women, and I notice that:
Empathy allows us to grasp the unique needs of others, nurturing a supportive work environment.
Collaboration empowers us to harness diverse perspectives, enriching creativity.
Emotional intelligence aids in making nuanced decisions that consider alternative inputs.
Exceptional communication skills inspire and motivate, aligning teams and client needs.
Which successful leaders are embodying these traits?
Ian: Emma Walmsley, CEO of GlaxoSmithKline, exemplifies these traits. Her leadership style fosters a work culture of open dialogue and diverse viewpoints (Financial Times, 2023). And the Lionesses! Sarina Wiegman’s exceptional influence translates into powerful teamwork on the pitch. Karren Brady is also championing empathy and communication as a businesswoman and on TV.
Is recognition growing for these traits?
Anne: Certainly. The UK Government’s Gender Diversity on Boards Review emphasised the need for a range of leadership qualities, including those traditionally associated with women. The 2021 report highlighted that companies with balanced representation tend to outperform their peers.
The legal sector is known for being traditional. This is one reason why we are challenging conventional ways of delivering legal services.
How can aspiring leaders cultivate these traits?
Justine: Cultivating such traits requires self-awareness and proactive development. Active listening is a biggie. It enhances understanding and seeking collaborations fosters inclusivity. Nurturing emotional intelligence allows leaders to navigate complex situations with insight.
Our team finds that workshopping and mentoring enables staff at all levels to convey their ideas. We’re like magpies, cherry picking good practice and learning from other disciplines. Why is this important? Because our clients expect us to come up with innovative legal solutions.
Surviving vs Thriving
Lindsey: The allure of ‘female’ traits is reshaping leadership, enabling some companies to go beyond survival mode. While applicable to all, acknowledging the power of empathy and collaboration contributes to more holistic leadership. Figures like Jacinda Ardern, the 40th Prime Minister of New Zealand ignited remarkable transformations.
As the UK’s business landscape evolves, celebrating these qualities is poised to create a dynamic and thriving leadership fabric. Ignore them at your peril. Embrace them to thrive.
Does this sound like your kind of legal team? Contact:
Richard Burnett, Partner and Commercial Director, HM3 Legal.
M: 07983 637149
E: rhb@law.uk.com
L to R - Ian (Commercial Property), Justine (Employment), Ruth (Private Client), Lindsey (MD), Richard (Commercial Director), Caroline (Property), Anne (Corporate).
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