In an increasingly digital world, the role of the CEO is changing. Companies are looking to their CEOs not only for leadership and direction, but also for guidance on how they can make a difference in the world.
But, what does it mean to be a cause-driven CEO?
Cause-Driven Leadership
First and foremost, being a cause-driven CEO means leading with purpose.
It’s about finding ways to use your power and influence as a leader to bring about positive change in the world.
This could include making sure your company has strong corporate social responsibility initiatives or advocating for causes that align with your company’s values.
A great example of this is Patagonia’s commitment to sustainability—their efforts have inspired other companies to follow suit and implement more sustainable practices.
In addition to leading with purpose, it’s important for cause-driven CEOs to lead by example. Not simply commanding that ‘purpose’ or ’cause’ be a factor.
As leaders, our words and actions carry weight—so it’s important that we practice what we preach when it comes to promoting corporate social responsibility initiatives or advocating for charitable causes.
We should also strive to create an environment at our companies that encourages employees to do their part in making the world a better place—whether through volunteering or giving back financially.
This is an interesting point. That being cause-driven or having ‘impact’ does not have to be all about profit, charity donations or supplies.
Impact can start inside your business.
There is an argument to say that is precisely where it must start.
Giving time to your team to invest in their family, their local communities, their local causes, their own wellbeing. This is all impactful.
Don’t go presenting these things as ‘perks’. These should be essential components of a healthy team. Treating them as people, not hands for hire.
Is there anything you might do today to provide your team with more time and space to do things that matter to them… or simply to recharge?
Or, you can consider how your cause might do more good by increasing awareness within your community.
Use your platform as a business leader to raise awareness of your chosen cause—whether it be through speaking engagements, interviews, or social media campaigns—allowing you to amplify your message and reach more people than ever before.
Be careful here though. These activities are not about raising awareness of what you do, what you have for sale or what you need. It is about using your platform to create awareness for what OTHER people do, what OTHER people need and what everyone might do to support.
If you’re unsure. Ask. Remember… don’t always ask ‘how might I do x’, instead ask ‘who might I know that knows or could do x’.
The Benefits of Cause-Driven Leadership
Being a cause-driven CEO doesn’t just benefit society; it can also be beneficial for businesses as well.
For one thing, taking an active role in social initiatives can help build trust between customers and brands by demonstrating that you care about more than just profits—you care about making a positive impact on the world too.
This can result in increased customer loyalty and engagement, which can ultimately lead to greater success for your business.
Additionally, investing in social initiatives can attract top talent who are looking for more than just good pay—they want their work to have meaning too!
Being a cause-driven CEO is no longer optional; it’s essential if you want your business to succeed in today’s rapidly evolving landscape.
That means leading with purpose and setting an example of what it looks like when leaders take initiative around social issues. And while there are many benefits of being a cause-driven leader, perhaps most importantly, you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you are making a real difference in the world!
Instant Action Activity
Why not start a timer for 10 minutes right now and ask yourself… “what might I possibly do to have more impact on my team, my customers or my community within the next 24 hours?”.
And if you’re not yet sure what your cause is or might be, start that conversation.
Yours,
Fox
