On June 19, HR professionals from the ICD gathered at BD Kiestra for an inspiring knowledge session on leadership, led by Joseph Sunday by Berenschot. Ten of the 23 member companies were represented in this interactive meeting, which focused on trends, practical application and personal reflection.
Leadership in motion
The session began with an exploration of what leadership means today. Leadership has long since ceased to be hierarchical direction based on control, but is about the Motivate others to contribute to collective goals, with attention to values, beliefs and context. Themes such as shared leadership, self-organization and natural leadership were discussed at length.
The HR role in leadership development
A key component of the HR knowledge circle was the question: How can HR contribute to firm leadership within the organization?
This included three perspectives:
- The roll: How do you fulfill your role as a leader? And do you manage to actually take on that role?
- The person: What motivates you as a professional? What gives or takes energy?
- The organization: What type of leadership does the organization require of you?
Participants reflected on their own role and how they, as HR professionals, can support others in leadership development.
Practical tools and insights
The meeting was highly practice-oriented. Using models from the Grubb Institute and Amabile & Kramer's Inner Work Life model, among others, insight was provided into what motivates people. One of the striking conclusions: Making progress in meaningful work appears to be the most powerful motivator for employees.
Basic psychological needs such as autonomy, competence and connectedness were also discussed. HR professionals discussed how to create an environment in their organizations where these needs are met - as a foundation for powerful leadership.
Interaction and recognition
The knowledge circle was characterized by much interaction and recognition among the participating HR professionals. Practical examples were shared, and there was room for reflection and asking questions.
Building leadership together
Within the Innovatiecluster Drachten, HR plays an important role in attracting, developing and retaining technical talent. With these knowledge circles, the HR working group actively contributes to strengthening leadership as the key to sustainable innovation.
