Summary:
Public narrative reveals the importance of sharing your 'why' to build meaningful relationships.
Meaningful change occurs at the intersection of entrepreneurial leadership and relational design.
Shifting from what you do to why you do it fosters deeper connections.
Engaging potential partners by asking about their values leads to collaborative opportunities.
At the heart of entrepreneurial leadership is the intersection of values and action.
The Importance of 'Why' in Building Relationships
There are two ways I can introduce myself. The first is the LinkedIn version: I've been the founding executive director of Babson College's Institute for Social Innovation for 15 years, focused on educating entrepreneurial leaders to create social and economic value simultaneously.
The second version is more personal: I grew up in an activist household, where we didn’t just talk about important issues — we acted on them. This upbringing inspired me to start the Institute for Social Innovation, aiming to challenge businesses to create a more just, equitable and sustainable world.
The Power of Public Narrative
The first introduction tells you what I do, while the second reveals why I do it. This is the essence of Marshall Ganz's concept of public narrative, a framework often used by community organizers. I learned about public narrative during a course on exponential fundraising, which helped me understand the importance of sharing my personal story rather than just the mission of my institution.
Meaningful Change through Entrepreneurial Leadership
I believe that meaningful change occurs at the intersection of entrepreneurial leadership and relational design. It's essential to find what you care about and mobilize others to join your efforts. By sharing our personal stories, we can connect on a deeper level, moving beyond mere job titles.
Sharing Your Why
At the Nonprofit Entrepreneurial Leadership certificate program, I witnessed diverse individuals share their stories, creating a shared understanding of their motivations. This shift from discussing what they do to why they do it fosters relationships and partnerships that lead to change.
Asking the Right Questions
For entrepreneurial leaders, engaging others in your ideas is crucial. Rather than focusing on a perfect pitch, I emphasize the importance of asking potential partners about their values and motivations. This approach leads to deeper conversations and collaborative opportunities.
Conclusion
At the core of entrepreneurial leadership is the intersection of values and action. By clarifying what matters to you and why, you can mobilize others, build meaningful relationships, and ultimately create lasting change.
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