Over the past two weeks, I have had a chance to meet some self-made business tycoons from other countries. I was greatly impressed not only by their professionalism but also by their humility. Although they created their own business empires, they selflessly attributed their success to their colleagues. This cemented my belief that it requires humility to be a great leader.
There is a famous Japanese saying: Minoruhodo kobe o tareru inahokana, which means: "The rice plant bends as the grain develops." Much as the ripening stems of rice hang their heads, people in high positions must also show humbleness and modesty. The bowing ritual of the Japanese clearly reflects this cultural attitude. The depth of the bow is a way of humbling oneself and showing respect to others.
Are humility and self-confidence paradoxical? The answer is no - because being humble does not mean a person lacks the courage to express his or her opinion. Those with high positions in the workplace should treat others with respect by taking into account that leadership is not about oneself, but about inspiring others to do what one wants.
Even if you are not humble by nature, humility is a character trait that you must develop because your achievements can be tarnished by a lack of humility. No matter how capable you are, sometimes you have to let others shine in order to win their trust to accomplish higher goals together. Keep in mind that nobody wants to cooperate with someone who always takes all the credit. Stepping out of the spotlight from time to time can earn you wonderful dividends.
Humble leaders avoid discussing what they have done for their organisations. They credit the contributions of others and make them feel significant. They always show that they are no better than other people at the workplace. Their humility is a key element in making others willing to follow.
Humility also helps to create a harmonious and collaborative working environment. Humble people are willing to work in teams and to help others when necessary. To foster humility at work requires leadership, and as a leader, you must be humble yourself. Don't expect your subordinates to be cooperative if you are a self-important know-all.
A leader with humility is more adaptive to a fast-changing business environment and can inspire others to propel an organisation to sustainable success.
Panatda Chennavasin is vice president for corporate strategies and corporate relations at Tri Petch Isuzu Sales and senior vice president for overseas marketing at Isuzu Operations (Thailand). Follow her articles in Hi! Managers on the third Wednesday of each month.
