Why Shift?
The world is facing unprecedented challenges: climate change, misinformation, increasing polarity and inequity, to name a few.
In this moment, we have a rare opportunity to shape the "new normal", and one thing is certain—the future we create will depend on the leaders who rise to the occasion.
Maria Raines founded Shift Practitioners to amplify the impact of skilled leadership consultants, coaches, and educators in her network and to ignite a movement to transform leadership.
While listening to Australian artist Lynette Wallworth speak at Davos in 2020, Maria was struck by this insight:
"This is a time for new leaders—youth leaders, women leaders, and Indigenous leaders—and for those who can work with them."
Maria knew that she, and others in her network, were ready to work with these new leaders and help usher in a new paradigm of leadership—one that embraces inclusivity, adaptability, and shared purpose.
The Shift in Leadership
Today, we are seeing a growing pushback against traditional Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Some organisations are questioning the necessity of these programmes, citing concerns about divisiveness or disengagement from employees. However, we believe this moment presents an opportunity to re-evaluate and strengthen the foundations of inclusive leadership, not abandon them.
We understand that for many, the shift toward inclusive leadership may seem overwhelming or uncertain. It's not about creating division but about ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Leadership transformation is not just for a select few, but for all who seek to lead with purpose, fairness, and integrity.
The Business Case for Leadership Transformation
Investing in leadership transformation is not just a “nice to have”—it’s a business imperative. The landscape is changing rapidly, and organisations that fail to invest in their leadership will struggle to thrive. Here’s why:
Improved Employee Engagement and Retention: Leaders who cultivate inclusive, transparent, and supportive environments foster higher levels of employee satisfaction. When people feel valued, their productivity, commitment, and retention rates increase. A Gallup study found that organisations with highly engaged employees outperform those without by 21% in profitability.
Stronger Organisational Performance: Effective leadership drives results. Companies with transformational leadership see better business outcomes because their leaders align teams around shared values and goals, fostering collaboration, innovation, and accountability. These leaders build cultures that support agility and long-term success.
Innovation and Adaptability: The challenges we face today—such as environmental crises, technological change, and shifting market dynamics—demand leaders who can pivot quickly and think creatively. Organisations that invest in leadership development build the adaptability necessary to navigate uncertainty and seize new opportunities.
Attraction of Top Talent: In today’s competitive market, the best candidates want to work for organisations that prioritise values-driven leadership. Companies known for their strong, inclusive leadership practices attract a more diverse pool of talent and create a more dynamic, innovative workforce.
Stronger Reputation and Brand: Leadership transformation is also key to fostering a positive organisational reputation. Companies that are seen as leaders in diversity, equity, and inclusion are not only more attractive to talent but also to investors, partners, and customers who prioritise ethical practices and sustainability.
Current Challenges Facing Leaders and Organisations
The world has changed dramatically over the past few years, and many leaders and organisations are grappling with new and complex challenges. Here are just a few of the key challenges organisations are facing today, and how Shift Practitioners can help address them:
Navigating Hybrid and Remote Work Models: Many organisations are struggling to manage teams that are split between office and remote work. Leaders face challenges in maintaining engagement, building strong team dynamics, and ensuring communication and productivity remain high in these new work environments.
How Shift Can Help: We provide leadership development that helps leaders adapt to and thrive in hybrid and remote environments. By building communication skills, emotional intelligence, and the ability to foster inclusivity, we support leaders in maintaining strong connections with their teams regardless of location.
Leading Through Change, Uncertainty, and Technological Disruption: The pace of change has never been faster. Leaders must navigate economic uncertainty, shifting market conditions, and unpredictable global events while maintaining team morale and performance. Additionally, the rise of new technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), presents both opportunities and disruptions. Leaders need to be equipped with the resilience and agility to pivot quickly and respond effectively.
How Shift Can Help: We help leaders develop the adaptability and resilience necessary to lead through uncertainty and navigate technological disruption. By fostering agility in leadership, we ensure leaders are prepared to make informed decisions, embrace innovation, and support their teams in staying relevant in an ever-changing landscape.
Building a Diverse and Inclusive Workforce: While many organisations have committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), many still struggle with implementation, leading to tokenism, disengagement, or frustration among employees.
How Shift Can Help: We support leaders in embedding DEI into the culture of their organisation, going beyond policies to create an inclusive environment where all employees feel valued and empowered. Our approach is practical, focused on real action and measurable outcomes.
Fostering Employee Well-Being, Preventing Burnout, and Creating Safe Workplaces: The pressures of modern work, coupled with ongoing uncertainty, have contributed to a rise in employee burnout and mental health challenges. It’s critical that leaders ensure workplaces are safe, where employees feel supported both physically and emotionally. Creating environments that allow individuals to thrive and preventing burnout requires a balanced approach to well-being.
How Shift Can Help: We guide leaders in developing emotionally intelligent leadership skills that prioritise well-being while maintaining performance. Our coaching and facilitation services teach leaders how to build resilient teams, create safe and supportive workplaces, reduce burnout, and foster a culture of care and support.
Aligning Leadership with Purpose and Values: Organisations are under increasing pressure to ensure that their leadership is aligned with their stated values, especially around sustainability, ethics, and social responsibility.
How Shift Can Help: We assist leaders in aligning their actions with organisational values and developing leadership strategies that are both purposeful and impactful. By focusing on leadership with integrity and authenticity, we help organisations build a strong reputation and long-term success.
A Practical and Inclusive Approach
At Shift Practitioners, we understand that leadership transformation is a journey—one that requires practical action, shared values, and tangible outcomes. The shift towards more inclusive leadership can feel like a big change, but it is one that benefits everyone in the long term. Here’s how we approach it:
Shared Values: We start by focusing on universal values like respect, fairness, and collaboration. These are values that resonate with all types of leaders and create environments where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Practical Action: We don’t just focus on big ideas—we also provide actionable steps that drive measurable results. Leadership transformation is not about overhauling everything at once, but about making gradual changes that lead to long-term success.
Inclusive Leadership: Effective leadership is inclusive. It’s not about giving one group an advantage over another but creating systems where everyone can succeed. This approach strengthens the organisation as a whole, benefiting employees, managers, and leaders alike.
Sustainability and Long-Term Results: Leadership transformation is an investment in the future. The organisations that invest in leadership today will be better equipped to navigate uncertainty and achieve sustainable growth in the years to come.
The Future of Leadership
The future of leadership depends on those who can see beyond the current challenges and build organisations that prioritise empathy, collaboration, and fairness. Leaders who can navigate the complexities of our time with integrity and courage will drive the change needed to create a better, more sustainable world.
At Shift Practitioners, we are committed to supporting these leaders. Together, we can create a future where leadership transforms lives, organisations, and society as a whole.