There is no denying that the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way people live. From working from home to adapting to online classes — no person was spared from the change. These sudden shifts in lifestyle have consequently affected our ideals and values. Never at a time in our history has there been a greater and more urgent focus on what it truly means to lead and help others during unprecedented times.
Leadership and service will be different in the post-pandemic era. In this critical time, it is essential to put a spotlight on reskilling and transforming leadership.
But what does it really mean to be a leader in the post-pandemic era? What should one possess to succeed despite the social barriers and global challenges, including climate change, nature loss, and systemic inequality?
Ability to Respond and Take Action to Form Better Solutions
Even before the global pandemic, the whole world has been fighting through various challenges and winning battles that have shaped global and regional systems. Effective policy implementation has been central to this fight.
Now more than ever, people are striving for change and seeking ways to take the lead in policy transformation. A post-pandemic leader must know where to start, and how to respond and take action.
When you focus on policy transformation, you create innovative strategies for effective policy implementation and inclusive public service. A leader who develops sustainable public services that uphold the public good is a leader who leads with social impact
Empathy and Vulnerability to Help the Community
COVID-19 has made people look at the bigger picture of systemic change, – leaders are now more aware of the challenges hounding the system. They are taking progressive steps to ensure that various communities, especially the vulnerable, get the support they need.
For one, upholding psychological safety and creating an ecosystem of trust within our communities have become critical. Leading with empathy is now a top priority. Leaders equipped with compassion can put themselves in the shoes of others and understand their needs.
With empathy, you can develop social entrepreneurship skills that will help you create sustainable products and services that support social and environmental solutions – ultimately, for the good of others.
Willingness to Collaborate for Impactful Investments
Another critical aspect of leadership in the post-pandemic era is the willingness to help and collaborate with like-minded people who uphold values and goals that affirm and reinforce yours.
The impact of inclusive policy transformation in government, coupled with empathetic social entrepreneurship, can be further enhanced by the new kid on the block: impact-first investing.
With impact-first investing, you will get to design and evaluate investments in the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) space. You will get to advise companies, on ESG-compliant policies and programs, and help them create impact performance measurements and ESG reporting standards.
With these skills, you can help develop impact investment firms and funds, aid family foundations, philanthropic and charitable institutions, as well as grant and AID agencies.
The Bottom Line: How Do I Become an Effective Leader in the Post-Pandemic Era?
Cognitive flexibility, creativity, interpersonal aptitude, and effective application and integration of these skills make a successful leader in the post-pandemic era.
At AIM, the Master in Development Management program is a good start. The MDM program seeks to develop impactful leaders who create innovative solutions that challenge and change the status quo for the better.
Do You Want to Learn More About AIM’s Redesigned Master in Development Management Program?
AIM’s Master in Development Management (MDM) was designed to mold leaders in various organizations, businesses, and society to excel in the “new normal.”
Whether you wish to be an impact leader, social entrepreneur, impact-focused investor, corporate sustainability advocate, policy innovator, or sustainable development champion, our program can help you with your journey to becoming a better leader your community needs.
Enquire now and learn how to lead with impact!
