3 Lessons on Becoming a Ripple Effect Leader™ How to Build Inclusive, High-Trust, Human-Centered Teams

By Chris Rollins, Keynote Speaker & Leadership Coach

Chris Rollins was our client during his tenure at eMarketer (now Insider), and we’ve followed his evolution since then, launching and growing a purpose-driven consulting practice. We believe in the work that he does, the causes he champions, and we believe in his mission and his ability to effect positive change in the workplace and in the world.

The world of work is constantly undergoing transformation. 

The challenges we face today from building diverse, inclusive, equitable work environments (while not new, ever more pressing) to navigating rapid changes in technology require innovative solutions. 

When you look at these challenges in the context of how polarized our workplaces and our world have become, the call for change becomes even more urgent.

From a leadership standpoint, this means innovation in our thinking, the frameworks that guide us and ultimately how we show up as people.

As quickly as we need to be adapting to and incorporating new technologies like generative AI, we need to be even more intentional and deliberate about reconnecting with our humanity.

That’s where The Ripple Effect comes in and why I’m so grateful to be sharing this message and experience with leaders and organizations from all over the globe.

What is The Ripple Effect?

It’s about inspiring action, challenging conventional thinking and bringing hope for a better, more human world of work. Through personal stories, practical advice and The Ripple Effect Leadership™ framework, I highlight the profound impact that how we show up as leaders can have on our teams, organizations and the world.

Here are three core lessons we can learn from The Ripple Effect to support leaders, teams and organizations in building more inclusive, high-trust, human-centered workplaces that leave no one behind.

1. Small Actions, Big Impact

Small actions create large ripples. Everything you say and everything you don’t say creates a ripple. It’s our job as leaders to get present to the impact those ripples are having on other people. 

For example, there’s probably a piece of advice or feedback someone shared with you at some point in your life that you’ll never forget, for better or worse. Or perhaps it was a non-verbal cue; a smile, a look of disdain, a shame-inducing laugh.

Early in my career, I was going through an emotional breakup after a long-term relationship ended. I couldn’t focus on my work, was hoping to step away for the day, and decided to share with my boss what was going on. With a stone cold face, he told me that I needed to learn how to keep my feelings out of my work and check my emotions at the door.

From that point on, I hesitated sharing anything personal at work, and had to constantly overcome my fear of being perceived as “too soft” or emotional at work.

2. Be The Pebble

We’re up against some big problems and major social and political issues that impact our experience at work; wars, racism, pay equity, mental illness, access to healthcare, gender expression, etc. The scope of the challenges can feel so overwhelming at times that it’s easy to feel like one thing any of us does won’t move the needle.

A pebble in a pond creates ever expanding ripples. 

Those ripples impact and inspire the next person and the next person. Together, a lot of pebbles in a pond can create big waves of change. 

It all starts with you.

At the end of a recent HR Conference keynote I delivered, a gentleman in his late 50’s came up to me and said “I just want to be the pebble, and start the ripple.” 

That’s my wish for you. Which takes me to my last point.

3. Jump in the Pond

Becoming a Ripple Effect Leader™ is hard, uncomfortable, messy work. It requires an ongoing practice of vulnerability, kindness, empathy, curiosity and humility. It’s not something we ever fully get right. And that’s okay. That’s why I position these skills to my clients as a commitment. 

We might not be able to solve the world’s big problems today or tomorrow.

I’m just asking everyone to jump in the pond with me, and make a difference for the person directly in front of them. 

During a virtual Ripple Effect Half-Day experience last week, I was working with all 25 leaders at a boutique consulting firm. First time managers to executive level. The CEO introduces me and the first thing I do is share a vulnerable telling of my personal story. I jump right in, not knowing how people will receive it, allowing everyone to have opinions about me. 

As we move into discussion, people unexpectedly share their own personal stories of the people who created powerful Ripple Effects in their lives. Tears, heart emojis and smiles flood the screen. We were witnessing vulnerability, connection and trust all happen with this team in real time. People respect courage. Courage and vulnerability breed trust. Trust creates space for growth and innovation. 

This team came out stronger. 

Their company, their clients and the world outside their walls are better for it.

Where We Go from Here

The Ripple Effect not only addresses current workplace challenges but also positions leaders and businesses for success in the future of work. As we look ahead, it's clear that the ability to build trust, innovate, and foster a sense of belonging will be crucial.

This concept provides a blueprint for the future of leadership. It encourages leaders and employees to embrace small actions that lead to significant transformations, to cultivate inclusion and empathy, and to recognize their personal empowerment. These changes not only enhance the workplace but also enable businesses to thrive in the evolving world of work.

Leaders who implement The Ripple Effect principles in their organizations create environments where every member feels valued, included, and heard. This, in turn, stimulates greater innovation, collaboration, and productivity. The Ripple Effect extends to customers and clients, who experience more positive and authentic interactions with their businesses.

The ripple starts with each of us, and if we all recognize this, we have the power to quickly transform workplaces and our world for the better.

If you’re interested in staying in touch with Chris, you can connect with him on LinkedIn and follow him on Instagram. 

If you’re interested in partnering with Chris and bringing The Ripple Effect to your team, business or event, feel free to contact Chris directly.

To learn more about CFW Careers and our Executive Search, Executive Coaching and Talent Advisory, contact cynnie@cfwcareers.com or rachel@cfwcareers.com.