Leading in a changing world requires building trust and providing direction
For me, leading in an environment of constant change means, above all, providing guidance, instilling confidence and actively supporting people throughout transformation processes. Change is now part of everyday working life. That is why I believe one of a leader’s main responsibilities is to ensure transparency, make transformations understandable and involve the team from the very earliest stages.
At the same time, it is about valuing different perspectives and building trust so that uncertainty does not lead to inaction. Changes are more likely to succeed when people understand their purpose and feel they are an active part of the process.
This also aligns with current leadership approaches, which identify people and communication as key factors for success.
The qualities that distinguish leaders who make an impact
In my view, there are three particularly important qualities: empathy, communication skills and integrity.
Empathy enables us to understand people and their needs. Communication skills ensure that objectives, expectations and changes are conveyed clearly. And integrity builds credibility because employees perceive consistency between what is said and what is done.
Furthermore, I consider the ability to learn and adapt to change to be essential. The world of work is constantly evolving and, therefore, a leader must remain open to new perspectives, technologies and ways of working.
These competencies are also regarded as key factors in the most modern leadership models.
Trust is the key asset for maintaining commitment in times of uncertainty
Trust is built primarily through honesty, consistency and transparency. Although we may not always have all the answers, it is important to communicate openly what information is known and which aspects are still to be defined.
Furthermore, leaders must be present, encourage dialogue and listen actively to people. Especially in times of uncertainty, employees need to feel that they are being listened to and that their concerns are taken seriously.
Those who take responsibility, act consistently and involve the team in decision-making create a solid foundation of trust, capable of maintaining motivation and commitment even in complex situations.
Communication based on trust is a fundamental element in any organisation.
Active listening and empathy are the foundation of high-performing teams
For me, active listening and empathy form the basis of any successful collaboration. Only when people feel they are being listened to and understood can a genuine relationship of trust develop.
Through active listening, I not only understand what a person is saying, but also the needs, concerns or ideas that often lie behind their words. Empathy helps me to understand those perspectives and respond appropriately.
This strengthens cohesion, reduces misunderstandings and fosters an open culture of feedback. As a result, teams not only improve their performance, but also their adaptability and resilience.
In both leadership and communication, empathy and active listening are essential skills.
Close communication is the foundation of authentic and inspiring leadership
For me, authentic leadership stems from honest communication and a genuine interest in people. Employees quickly sense whether a leader is merely conveying information or genuinely seeking dialogue.
Openness does not mean blurring professional boundaries, but rather being approachable, showing interest and building relationships based on trust. A leader who communicates transparently, accepts feedback and openly shares their own challenges conveys credibility.
And it is precisely this credibility that forms the basis for inspiring others and moving forward together towards common goals.
The best advice for new leaders: put people before processes
My main piece of advice would be: put people before processes.
New leaders often believe they must have all the answers from day one. However, at the outset, it is far more important to listen, build trust and get to know the strengths of each team member.
Leadership isn’t about knowing everything, but about creating an environment in which people can do their jobs successfully.
Those who communicate respectfully, act consistently and maintain an attitude of continuous learning lay the foundations for strong and lasting leadership. Good leadership doesn’t start with authority, but with trust.
Sustainable leadership stems from trust, communication and valuing people
“For me, leadership is primarily about helping people realise their full potential, offering guidance and successfully navigating change together. Technical competence is important, but sustainable leadership stems from trust, communication and a genuine appreciation of people.”
In a context of constant transformation, organisations need leaders capable of connecting people, building trust and creating environments where learning and adaptation are part of the culture.
This vision is fully aligned with Telefónica’s ambition to “become the best gateway for citizens to digital technologies”, a transformation that is only possible by fostering talent, continuous learning and leadership amongst people. It also contributes to one of the company’s strategic objectives: “to retain and attract the best professionals suited to the sector’s needs”, by strengthening a culture based on trust, collaboration and professional development.
