There’s a positive shift towards embracing diversity in leadership roles: Shreedha Singh

We, at Adgully, have always saluted and honoured women managers and leaders across diverse fields. W-SUITE is a special initiative from Adgully that has been turning the spotlight on some of the most remarkable women achievers in the M&E, Advertising, Marketing, PR and Communications industry. In the refurbished series, we seek to find out how women leaders have been managing their teams and work as well as how they have been navigating through the toughest and most challenging times brought about by the global pandemic.

In an exclusive interaction with Adgully, Shreedha Singh, CEO & Co-Founder, T.A.C - The Ayurveda Company, talks about her journey as an entrepreneur, growing diversity in leadership positions, how organisations can effectively encourage and groom women leaders, and more.

How do you think the role and scope of women leaders have widened in the current market ecosystem?

The role and scope of women leaders have significantly widened in the current market ecosystem. We have witnessed a positive shift towards recognising and embracing diversity in leadership positions. Women are increasingly breaking through glass ceilings and assuming pivotal roles in various industries. Their unique perspectives, empathy, and collaborative approaches have proven invaluable in driving innovation, problem-solving, and sustainable growth.

What has been your major learning from the pandemic period?

The pandemic period taught me the importance of adaptability and resilience. As a leader, I learned that being agile and quick to adjust our strategies is crucial when faced with unexpected challenges. It reinforced the significance of employee well-being, remote work capabilities, and the necessity of maintaining strong customer relationships even during uncertain times.

What is your mantra for maintaining a successful work-life balance in the new normal? According to you, what makes women the best in crisis management?

My mantra for maintaining a successful work-life balance in the new normal is to prioritise tasks based on their significance and delegate responsibilities effectively. It is crucial to set clear boundaries and allocate time for both work and personal life.

Women often excel in crisis management due to their inherent ability to multi-task, empathise, and nurture relationships. These traits enable them to foster a supportive and cohesive environment during turbulent times, promoting team unity and effective problem-solving.

What are the five most effective leadership lessons that you have learned?

• Communication is Key: Clear and transparent communication fosters trust, alignment, and collaboration within the team.
• Embrace Change: Adapting to change is essential for growth. Leaders must be open to new ideas and pivot when necessary.
• Lead by Example: Your actions speak louder than words. Demonstrating integrity, dedication, and a strong work ethic inspires your team.
• Empower Your Team: Providing your team with autonomy and the tools they need empowers them to excel and innovate.
• Continual Learning: Staying curious and open to learning helps you stay ahead in a rapidly evolving business landscape.

Gender sensitivity and inclusion in the new normal – how can organisations effectively encourage and groom women leaders in challenging times?

Organisations can effectively encourage and groom women leaders by implementing these strategies:

• Mentorship and Sponsorship: Establish formal mentorship programs where experienced leaders guide aspiring women leaders. Sponsorship involves advocating for women’s advancement in leadership roles.
• Skill Development: Provide training and development opportunities that focus on leadership, negotiation, and decision-making skills.
• Flexible Work Policies: Offer flexible work arrangements that accommodate family responsibilities and personal growth.
• Inclusive Culture: Foster an inclusive workplace culture that values diverse perspectives and rewards merit.
• Recognition and Visibility: Highlight the achievements of women leaders and provide them with platforms to showcase their expertise.
• Dismantle Bias: Implement policies to address unconscious bias in hiring, promotions, and evaluations.
• Network Building: Facilitate networking opportunities for women to connect with mentors, peers, and industry leaders.

By creating an environment that supports women’s growth, organisations can harness the immense potential and contributions of women leaders during challenging times.