The Value of Leading by Example in 2025: A Canadian Perspective on Evolving Leadership

In a world of constant transformation, where hybrid teams, digital acceleration, and cross-generational collaboration are the norm, the role of leadership has never been more dynamic or more important. In 2025, leading by example is no longer just a best practice, it’s a leadership imperative.

The Shift: From Authority to Authenticity

The new generation of talent in today’s workforce, Gen Z and emerging Gen Alpha professionals are rewriting the rules of workplace engagement. They’re looking for leaders who are relatable, present, and values driven. Titles matter less than behaviour. Vision matters, but only if it’s backed by real action.
As leaders, this means our daily actions carry more weight than our directives. Whether it’s showing up prepared, being the first to adapt to change, or simply modeling how to balance priorities and well-being, we set the tone for the culture we want to build.

The Canadian Leadership DNA

Here in Canada, we take our roles as leaders seriously. Empathy, inclusion, and collaboration aren’t buzzwords, they’re deeply rooted in our leadership approach. But what makes Canadian leadership especially effective in 2025 is our willingness to adapt and adjust.

We understand that no two teams are the same. What works in Toronto may need tweaking in Vancouver or Montreal. A Gen X team member may need a different communication style than a Gen Z new hire. That’s why flexibility, active listening, and cultural awareness are central to how we lead.

“When engaging with colleagues or direct reports, I tailor my approach by adapting to their individual communication and behavioural styles. This ensures alignment, enhances collaboration, and maximized the effectiveness of our conversation, project or tasks. To support this, we offer a behavioural assessment tool to all employees in Canada, helping to strengthen interpersonal communication, foster resilient teams, and drive productivity across the organization. It also creates a safe space for our employees to share a voice.”
– Kim Humes, Director of People and Culture, Inizio Engage Canada

The Power of Example

• Transparency inspires trust. Sharing not just wins, but lessons learned, builds a safe space for innovation.
• Balance models boundaries. Logging off on time and taking vacation gives others permission to do the same.
• Respect earns respect. Treating every voice with consideration encourages open dialogue and stronger outcomes.

When leaders model the mindset and behaviour they want to see, they unlock potential across every level of the organization.

And Above All… Let’s Not Forget to Have Fun

Leadership isn’t just about driving results, it’s also about creating energy, fostering connection, and yes, having fun. Whether it’s a spontaneous team celebration, a themed meeting, or a well-timed meme in the group chat, moments of levity fuel morale and humanize leadership. Joy is contagious and it starts with us.

Final Thought

“In 2025, leading by example isn’t just about being visible, it’s about being intentional.” States Joel Erickson, Inizio Engage Canada General Manager. “Our leaders are well-positioned to lead the way, not because we always have the answers, but because we lead with curiosity, compassion, and purpose. And when we do that, our teams don’t just follow, they thrive.”