Why Leaders Need Each Other More Than Ever: Reflections on My Feature in Education View Magazine
I’m honored to share that my article, “Why Leaders Need Each Other More Than Ever,” was recently featured in Education View Magazine. This piece delves into the evolving landscape of leadership in 2025, emphasizing the increasing importance of peer support among leaders.
The Loneliness at the Top
In today’s complex corporate environment, leaders are expected to have all the answers—ranging from employee motivation to navigating challenging markets. However, as they ascend the corporate ladder, many experience a growing sense of isolation. This is particularly true for HR leaders, who often grapple with intricate people-related issues without a robust support system.
The Power of Peer Support
Recognizing this gap, we launched R.E.D. (Relationships, Engagement, and Development) in November 2024—a monthly peer group designed for HR leaders to come together in small, confidential sessions. These gatherings provide a safe space for leaders to share challenges, ask questions, and gain fresh perspectives from their peers. The goal isn’t to offer quick fixes but to foster clarity and mutual growth.
Real Conversations, Real Impact
One of the early R.E.D. sessions highlighted the transformative power of peer discussions. An HR leader, frustrated with the traditional approach to International Women’s Day, found inspiration to shift from surface-level celebrations to meaningful conversations about gender and career challenges. This change was met with overwhelming positive feedback, underscoring the value of authentic dialogue.
Another participant, struggling with employee motivation, realized through group insights that the solution wasn’t more incentives but understanding individual career aspirations. By initiating targeted career development plans, they witnessed a significant boost in employee engagement.
Continuing the Journey
While R.E.D. has shown promising results, it’s an evolving initiative. We’re continuously refining the experience based on feedback, exploring aspects like format, timing, and group dynamics to better serve our community.
If you’re an HR leader based in or around Shanghai and looking to engage in honest conversations with like-minded peers, I’d love to invite you to join one of our upcoming R.E.D. sessions.
Let’s Connect
If you’re an HR leader in or around Shanghai and want to be part of a community that prioritizes reflection, peer learning, and real connection, I’d love to invite you to an upcoming R.E.D. session.
Interested in learning more? Get in touch and I’ll be happy to share the details. Let’s explore how peer support can elevate your leadership journey.
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