Women bring unique strengths to leadership roles: Shruti Shah

Adgully has consistently celebrated and acknowledged the accomplishments of women entrepreneurs and leaders in various sectors. One of our notable initiatives, W-SUITE, focuses on highlighting extraordinary women achievers in the Media & Entertainment, Advertising, Marketing, PR, and Communications industry. In this updated series, we aim to explore how women leaders adeptly manage their teams and overcome challenges in the dynamic landscape of their respective industries.

In an exclusive interaction with Adgully, Shruti Shah, Founder, House of Surkh, speaks about the role and scope of women leaders in today’s market ecosystem, emotional intelligence, maintaining a successful work-life balance, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion, and more.

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

In today’s market ecosystem, the role and scope of women leaders have expanded significantly. They bring diverse perspectives, innovative solutions, and effective leadership styles to the table, driving growth and fostering inclusivity within organizations. As women continue to break through barriers and shatter glass ceilings, their influence and impact on the market are undeniable, paving the way for future generations of female leaders.

As a prominent female leader in the industry, how have your experiences shaped your leadership style, and what unique strengths do you believe women bring to leadership roles?

As the founder of the House of Surkh, my experiences have shaped my leadership style to be collaborative, empathetic, and adaptive. Being a woman in a male-dominated industry has taught me the importance of resilience and determination. I believe women bring unique strengths to leadership roles, such as strong communication skills, emotional intelligence, and the ability to nurture inclusive environments where diverse perspectives thrive. These qualities enable us to effectively navigate challenges, inspire teams, and drive meaningful change in the industry.

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 prioritize self-care, set boundaries, and delegate tasks effectively. Women excel in crisis management due to our innate ability to remain calm under pressure, multitask efficiently, and collaborate effectively with others. Additionally, our empathy and intuition allow us to understand and address the needs of our team members and stakeholders, fostering resilience and adaptability during challenging times.

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

The five most effective leadership lessons I have learned are:

• Embrace vulnerability: Showing authenticity and openness fosters trust and connection within the team.
• Lead by example: Actions speak louder than words; demonstrating integrity and accountability inspires others to do the same.
• Foster a culture of continuous learning: Encouraging curiosity and a growth mindset cultivates innovation and adaptability.
• Empower others: Delegating responsibilities and providing growth opportunities empowers team members to excel and thrive.
• Prioritize communication: Transparent and open communication builds strong relationships and ensures alignment towards common goals.

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

As the founder of the House of Surkh, I’m passionate about fostering gender sensitivity and inclusion, especially in today’s challenging landscape. Here’s how organizations can effectively encourage and groom women leaders in the new normal:

• Empowerment Workshops: Host workshops tailored to women, focusing on confidence-building, leadership skills, and overcoming gender biases. These sessions create a supportive space for women to grow and thrive.
• Mentorship Programs: Establish mentorship programs pairing aspiring women leaders with experienced mentors. This provides guidance, support, and invaluable insights for navigating the leadership journey.
• Flexible Work Arrangements: Embrace flexible work arrangements that accommodate the diverse needs of women, such as remote work options, flexible hours, and parental leave policies. This fosters a more inclusive environment where women can balance their personal and professional responsibilities effectively.
• Leadership Training: Offer specialized leadership training programs designed specifically for women, addressing topics like negotiation skills, assertiveness, and managing work-life balance. These programs equip women with the tools and confidence to excel in leadership roles.
• Diverse Representation: Ensure diverse representation in leadership positions and decision-making processes. Actively seek out and promote talented women within the organization, showcasing their capabilities and contributions.
• Culture of Support: Foster a culture of support and advocacy for women's advancement within the organization. Encourage male allies to actively champion gender equality and challenge outdated stereotypes.
• Continuous Feedback: Provide regular feedback and recognition to women leaders, acknowledging their achievements and providing constructive guidance for growth. This reinforces their value within the organization and encourages continued development.

By implementing these strategies, organizations can create an environment where women feel empowered to reach their full potential as leaders, driving innovation, and success in the new normal. Together, let’s break barriers and build a future where gender equality is not just a goal, but a reality.