Mike Parra, CEO Europe at DHL Express, has shared three qualities he believes can make a difference in leadership: being approachable, kind and open.
Writing on LinkedIn, Parra shared the advice after speaking to 41 future leaders at DHL Express who are taking part in the company’s Leadership Development Program.
Parra shared the advice with 41 future leaders at DHL Express taking part in the company’s Leadership Development Program.
The programme aims to prepare high-performing colleagues from across the business for their next roles, including by partnering them with senior executive mentors to support their career development.
“Many colleagues have incredible skills and expertise from their function, but there are three leadership qualities I believe can make a real difference, and are often overlooked,” Parra said.
The first is approachability. “Your team should feel like they can come to you for support with an issue they’re facing,” Parra said.
He encouraged leaders to consider whether their teams would be comfortable bringing problems to them. “Ask yourself: would your team share ‘the reds’ with you? How would you react if they did?”
Parra’s second piece of advice focuses on how leaders respond to colleagues, particularly when things go wrong. “Be kind to your colleagues – and I mean a genuine kindness, where you show empathy for the person. Most people are trying their best.”
He added: “How we respond when things go wrong can be a defining moment and set an example for others to follow.”
His third lesson is to remain open to opportunities, even when they do not necessarily fit an individual’s original career plan.
“While you may have an aspirational role, seizing a development opportunity when one arises can open new doors – whether it’s moving team or function, or in my case country or even region!”
Parra also highlighted mobility as a potential advantage in career development. “If you are open to being mobile on your journey, that helps.”
Reflecting on his own career, Parra said the session had reminded him of the opportunities he had received at DHL Express.
“The session reminded me how blessed I am to be part of this company, which has given me so many incredible opportunities. I wish all our great colleagues every success as they continue to grow in their careers.”
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Author: Anastasiya Simsek
