Leadership Traits of Benefit Corporations

What are the leadership qualities of Benefit Corporations?

How do they actually behave and what values make them different or special? There is a process we think drives their unique approach:

1. First of all, they think differently from traditional American business leaders

2. Secondly, this different thinking leads to a different set of attitudes and beliefs

3. Lastly, because of their different beliefs, they act and behave differently

What this means is that the conscientious leaders of Benefit Corporations don’t just start initiating programs that support people, planet, and profit. Rather it begins with truths they discover and embrace from their personal beliefs that lead to embracing this philosophy.

Eight values reflected in the leaders of Benefit Corporations?

Through our research and work with cause-driven organizations, we have identified the following values:

1. Authenticity
2. Transparency
3. Diversity/Equity
4. Simplicity
5. Humility vs Ego
6. Sustainability
7. Purpose or cause-driven
8. Stewardship

These traits are often found in Social Entrepreneurs as well.

It’s not that there is a “perfect” leader that every day, every moment practices these behaviors. It’s more about the leadership framework that guides and creates a culture that is inherent and often seen in Benefit Companies/Corporations and B Corps.