Eileen Fisher sold her company in 2005 for $300 million to her 875 employees through an employee stock ownership plan, or ESOP. She is now the chief creative officer. This is just one example of the company's unique leadership practices that have made the brand successful. Following are a few others.
At Eileen Fisher, they use their mission as their compass and integrate the values of the company into the everyday experience. It’s important to communicate the big picture and help others see how their roles play a part in the big ideas.
Focus on what is really important and set priorities. Simplify the work as much as possible. Create thinking time for yourself and others.
Creative thinking and risk-taking often lead to a bigger place. So explore possibilities and follow curiosity. Believe in new ideas even if they don't fit right now. Help people infuse their ideas within the context of the whole.
Individual voices contribute to and enhance the whole so bring people together and collaborate. A leader is never alone. Invite many perspectives into discussion and decision-making.
Excite, motivate, involve - embrace each person's energy. Inspire people to engage their passion, creativity, strengths and skills in the work. Appreciate and acknowledge everyone's efforts and contributions.
Find your voice. Trust and express it. Share information and your own ideas. Be present. Be accessible. Listen. Ask questions. Integrate your thinking into the big picture. Be conscious of how your presence and style affect others.
Be authentic. Tell the truth with great kindness. Be open about mistakes. We make them every day. In the middle of a mistake we discover a new solution. There are infinite opportunities to learn.
Support people in knowing their passions, strengths and work styles. Encourage them to seek new challenges and possibilities. Every person expands the company's potential.
Identify where you want to grow. Stretch yourself. Deepen and engage your strengths and passions - that's how you make the most valuable contribution.
Discover the possibilities in each situation. Have fun every day. Focus on the positive. Inspire others to be positive. Together we create something wonderful.
