TED Talks Daily Sunday Pick: Why kindness is the secret to a successful business | Fixable
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Jan 19, 2025 James Rhee, a professor of entrepreneurship and impact investor, shares insights from his remarkable turnaround of Ashley Stewart, a retail company for Black, plus-size women. He discusses how kindness can be a game-changer in business, fostering strong workplace dynamics and enhancing employee engagement. Rhee emphasizes the importance of compassionate leadership and building genuine relationships with customers. With innovative strategies, he illustrates how kindness can not only reshape company culture but also drive significant business success.
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Unlikely Turnaround
- James Rhee, a private equity investor, became the CEO of Ashley Stewart, a struggling retail company.
- Despite lacking CEO experience and being demographically different from the target customer, he led a remarkable turnaround.
Frontline Focus
- Rhee prioritized spending time in stores, interacting with customers and frontline workers.
- He learned by observing, asking questions, and building trust with employees.
Creating a Culture of Kindness
- Define kindness as an investment in another person's agency and freedom.
- Eliminate hierarchical structures, encourage open communication, and foster a safe environment for vulnerability.