Leading by Example & Diversity in IKEA
There are many reasons why I decided to join IKEA.
First of all I love retail and being able to help and satisfy customers. I also have a genuine interest in home furnishings and how people live their everyday life at home. The fact that IKEA is a global company that can offer development opportunities all over the world and within a wide range of professions in different business areas, was also one of the deciding factors for me. I also remember putting great faith in the fact that people and team spirit are central values within the company.
Being a manager at IKEA requires you to “lead by example”. This means that your behavior needs to set a good example for all the people around you. In practice this means that you need to do yourself what you expect of your team members. It also requires you to always do what you have said. By being a visible and accessible leader that listens to your co-workers you also create a good working environment where everyone feels respected and they have the chance to contribute.
At IKEA we have a strong belief in the individual and it is strength in daring to be different. “Diversity” is a crucial factor behind a team’s success and it means much more than just different genders and different nationalities. It incorporates an individual’s personality, strengths and weaknesses, interests and knowledge, to mention but a few. To create true “diversity” requires us to deeply get know our co-workers and to take care of their individual strengths and abilities. We therefore encourage people to be who they really are, to take independent initiatives and to always express their opinions.
Mikael Andersson
Sales Department Manager
Participant of IKEA International Young Potential Program
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