BAE Systems is one of the largest defense contractors in the United States. Leadership at BAE, and the defense industry in general, is generally male dominated. But in October 2009, Linda Hudson was named Chief Executive Officer and President of BAE Systems, becoming one of the most influential women in the defense industry.
Leading approximately 43,000 employees in the United States, United Kingdom, Sweden, Israel and South Africa, on her first day as CEO Linda decided to wear an Armani women’s business suit and accent it with a scarf tied in a unique knot the sales associate taught her to tie. The next day at work Linda was shocked to find more than a dozen women chose to wear a scarf and tied it in the same knot style she wore the day before.
Leaders, whether they know it or not, are always being observed and emulated. Not only the clothes they wear, but their work ethic, meeting behaviors, and communications are all noted by those around them. Leaders have more influence on their team than they realize.
Empowered leaders who are aware of the examples they are setting experience more success.