You may not think you’re a role model, but you are…

Take a trip down memory lane and consider the people who have inspired you over the years. Perhaps a teacher, a family member or a public figure springs to mind. But what about a boss?

Managers who are also role models have a big impact – but we need more of them, research shows.

Role modelling good management is at the heart of building inclusive workplaces, for example. A new CMI report highlights that managers who “walk the walk” on diversity and inclusion are integral not only to building a culture of respect and equality, but also to delivering better business results, higher employee satisfaction and increased retention. However, only 55% of employees agree that their manager currently role models diversity and inclusion. 

• How to be an inclusive leader (without virtue signalling)

We wanted to hear stories from the CMI community about the management role models who have inspired them. So, we recently met with several managers who are shortlisted for this year’s CMI Awards of Excellence and asked them about the managers who’ve had a lasting impact on their careers – and how they are now paying this forward.

Tackling challenges together

Looking back at her career, Sandy Farar CMgr FCMI, former business services partner at Arup, recalls two individuals in particular who have inspired her. She credits her former senior director at Arup, Mark Jones, with being the reason why she felt “empowered” to progress in multiple different departments – and to pursue Chartered Manager status. 

He “trusted me to make mistakes and to get on with it, knew that I had good intentions and allowed me to learn”, she recalls. 

Sandy identifies Mark’s lasting impression on her own leadership style. To her, being a good role model means exhibiting positive behaviours and always seeking to empower those around you – even when challenges arise and mistakes happen. 

• “They had a private bar on the top floor!”: The good, bad and ugly of management role modelling

When things get difficult, good management means stepping up and adopting an attitude of, “Don’t panic; it’s OK. Together we can sort it”. As a leader, “you are everybody’s motivation and inspiration when things go wrong”, she reflects.