Leadership – is it more about intent, or about the volume NIRANJAN GIDWANI CERTIFIED BOARD DIRECTOR (MCA - INDIA) | BOARD MEMBER | ESG DIRECTOR | DIGITAL DIRECTOR | FELLOW - BOARD STEWARDSHIP | MEMBER UAE SUPERBRANDS COUNCIL

 

Throughout my leadership journey, I have come to a profound realization: true influence often resides in calmness. It’s a quiet strength that, when harnessed intentionally, can shape perceptions, v foster trust, and inspire action more effectively than any volume or loud declaration.

Many believe that effective leadership is synonymous with assertiveness, charisma, or being vocal. Certainly true. Over decades, I too have experienced various styles of leadership. Yet, over time, I have observed an unmistakable truth. Sometimes, the most powerful leaders are those who speak sparingly, choosing their moments and words with care. It’s not about shouting the loudest; it’s about cultivating an authentic presence that commands attention—not through volume, but through authenticity.

The Subtle Shift When a Quiet Leader Speaks

I recall an experience working closely with a leader who exemplified this quiet strength. He rarely raised his voice, never tried to dominate conversations, yet when he did speak, his words carried unmatched weight. His voice remained calm, deliberate, and thoughtful, commanding attention without effort.

What made his influence so compelling was not his tone or volume, but his presence. His demeanor conveyed confidence and composure, creating a space where others felt safe to express ideas and concerns. His leadership was rooted in patience, active listening, and clarity.

The moment he chose to speak, others listened intently. Not because they were compelled by the loudness of his words, but because they recognized the value behind them. His words resonated because they were intentional, well-considered, and backed by a genuine sense of groundedness.

Jacinda Ardern, the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, is widely praised for her empathetic and composed leadership, especially during crises like the Christchurch terrorist attacks and the COVID-19 pandemic. Her calm demeanor, compassionate communication, and ability to provide reassurance during difficult times fostered trust and unity among New Zealanders. She exemplifies how gentle strength and emotional intelligence can guide a nation through uncertainty.

When Satya Nadella became CEO of Microsoft in 2014, he was widely recognized for his calm, humble, and thoughtful leadership style. Rather than making aggressive changes or issuing loud directives, Nadella focused on fostering a culture of empathy, collaboration, and continuous learning. His calm, composed demeanor helped reshape Microsoft's internal environment, encouraging innovation and open communication.

So, is leadership about how often one speaks or how loudly one asserts oneself? Or is it about why one speaks, how one speaks, and the impact that words have on others.

Quiet leaders understand that true influence is rooted in presence, not necessarily oratory performance. They lead through thoughtful questions, deep listening, and consistent composure. They don’t necessarily need to command attention all the time with showy displays.

Their influence is often subtle, yet incredibly enduring. It’s in the trust they build, the calm they exude, and the clarity they offer during moments of uncertainty. These qualities leave an imprint that persists long after meetings end or projects are completed.

Misunderstanding Quiet Leaders

It’s common for quiet leaders to be misunderstood. Some peers or team members might perceive them as reserved or disengaged. But this perception misses the core of what makes these leaders effective.

Their strength lies in their ability to lead through presence rather than performance. They ask insightful questions rather than issuing commands. They listen deeply rather than dominate conversations. Their calmness becomes an anchor for the team during chaotic or uncertain periods.

In reality, quiet leadership is a form of quiet power. It’s an influence that comes from a place of self-awareness, patience, a very high level of internal security, and genuine concern for others. This type of leadership fosters trust and loyalty, creating an environment where everyone feels seen and valued.

Embrace Your Quiet Power

If one naturally prefers a softer, more reserved approach, one needs to take heart: this leadership style is also valid and effective. One’s calmness can be the greatest asset in navigating complex situations and inspiring others.

Let’s ask ourselves in today’s world of hyper-aggression which is visible all around us: How can we lean further into our natural quietness to create more impact? Perhaps it’s by choosing to listen more deeply, pausing before responding, or speaking with deliberate intention. Small changes can amplify our influence and reinforce our authenticity.

Remember, leadership is not about being the loudest person in the room. It’s about being trusted when it matters most. It’s about embodying steadiness when others feel uncertain, and by attempting to offer clarity amidst chaos.

We might discover that our quiet voice resonates more profoundly than we ever anticipated. Genuine influence does not depend on volume but on the authenticity of our presence and the intention behind our words.

In conclusion, leadership rooted in calmness is simply another form of strength—a quiet, unwavering power that can steer teams through challenges and inspire lasting trust. Embracing our natural quietness and letting it serve as our foundation can open doors to authentic influence and meaningful leadership. Remember, the most enduring leaders often speak softly, but their impact echoes loudly in the hearts and minds of those they serve.

The world needs both "loud" and "quiet" leaders, but as long as they both have high levels of integrity! Some of the best leaders are those who exhibit a high degree of calm, and when the work gets done, the aim fulfilled, his or her people say: “we did it ourselves”