A Paradigm Change: How Women are Redefining Business Leadership

By: Niharika Jalan, CEO, Founder, Chief Growth Officer, INDICOLD

Niharika Jalan, founder of INDICOLD carries a strong persona in building a long-term plan and visualizing new business opportunities. She brings diverse experience in managing and planning B2B clients in the cold warehousing space. She has been with INDICOLD, an Indian cold chain company for over four years.

In a conversation with Women Entrepreneurs Review Magazine, Niharika talks about various facets of women’s leadership roles in modern business world and highlights how women leverage their inherent qualities to excel as business leaders.

Given the current market landscape, how do you see the evolving economic challenges influencing the visibility and effectiveness of women in leadership roles? Are there any emerging trends that suggest a shift in how female leadership is perceived and valued?

In recent years, women's leadership has become more accessible in various fields, including business, politics, and social sectors. This is due to their creative acceptability and ability to adapt to changing environments and economies even getting into tough times. As a result, more women leaders are emerging and people are comfortable working with them.

In an increasingly complex global economy, how do women leaders contribute to making strategic decisions that balance short-term financial performance with long-term societal impact? What unique perspectives do women bring to this balancing act that might differ from their male counterparts?

Women possess higher EQs and adaptability, enabling them to balance short-term and long-term goals. They have traditionally been primary caregivers for the next generation, allowing them to understand the societal impact of businesses. Women leaders have a larger understanding of the long-term impact of business, such as sustainability and environmental impact. They can balance these goals better than men, focusing on a good environment and reducing GHG emissions. Their unique skill set, multitasking, and higher EQ enable them to manage both tasks effectively. The real impact of being primary caregivers allows them to recognize the long-term impact of businesses on their larger community.

As organizations strive to cultivate inclusive cultures, how do you see the role of women in leadership influencing not just gender equality but broader cultural and societal norms within businesses? Can you share how these influences might translate into tangible economic benefits for the industry?

Organizations with a fair share of women in leadership positions, such as CXO or CEO positions, are more open to employees from all backgrounds, ensuring equal opportunity and no judgment. This diversity in leadership creates a more inclusive environment, allowing access to a larger pool of employees and talent. Women leaders do not limit themselves by their experiences, allowing for diverse perspectives from different cities, towns, families, and backgrounds. This diversity strengthens the organization's culture, value system, and retention, leading to economic benefits. Additionally, a diverse network helps organizations leverage business opportunities more effectively. INDICOLD and other organizations with a strong number of women leaders demonstrate this, demonstrating the direct economic benefits of having a more open and diverse employee structure.

Considering the recent global crises, how do you think the leadership styles of women CEOs have shaped the way businesses navigate through challenges? What long-term societal impacts do you foresee from these leadership approaches, and how might they redefine success in the industry?

In today's uncertain world, women leaders possess strong empathy, teamwork, and resilience. They understand the needs of employees, business partners, and stakeholders, giving them an edge in navigating uncertain times. By building secure organizations, they foster a sense of community and creativity, valuing the organization and employee community. Women leaders also demonstrate empathy with various stakeholders, such as customers and vendors, fostering a partnership that strengthens the organization and its employees. This approach can lead to a more resilient and adaptable workforce.

Traditional business success metrics often emphasize profitability and growth. How are women in leadership roles redefining these metrics to include societal impact and inclusivity? What implications does this shift have for the future of business and its role in society?

Profitability and growth are crucial for business continuity and growth. Inclusivity, openness, and collaboration with a larger societal framework drive higher profitability and better growth. Women-led businesses, which become integral to society, are better positioned to grow and become interlinked, ensuring they become a more interconnected entity.

As a leader, how do you see the influence of women CEOs shaping global economic policies, particularly in areas like sustainability, equality, and innovation? What role do you believe women leaders play in steering these conversations at an industry-wide level?

Global organizations have defined sustainability goals, with women CEOs advocating for eco-friendly practices, equal opportunities, and driving new ideas. Sustainability, equality, and innovation have become central, with innovation encouraged across organizations in every role. Innovation is no longer a separate department, but a constant, shared goal across all roles, transforming the way organizations operate.

Message to Readers

Challenges are faced by both men and women in leadership roles and they respond similarly. However, women leaders are likely to ask for help, regardless of the role, and it is okay to ask for help from family, friends, or even at work. I suggest that asking for help doesn't make women weaker, but rather strengthens them. I emphasize that it takes a village to raise a family, business, or child and that asking for help doesn't make one weaker but strengthens them. Therefore, I encourage women to ask for help in their communities, it just makes them stronger.