Does Kindness Bring Success: The Evolution of Leadership in the Business World

The modern tendency towards kindness has become noticeable, with business books promoting the "power of kindness" and social networks such as LinkedIn flooded with emotional videos. Companies are also increasingly embracing the values of compassion, but this phenomenon is both banal and indicative. Banal, because it is not surprising that people respond well to polite behaviour, and indicative because it shows a change in leadership styles. 

Research shows that friendly bosses often create trust and security in the work environment, and this can improve firm performance, especially in contexts where collaboration is required. However, kindness is not always the key to success; different industries and situations require different qualities in leaders. 

For example, bosses in the financial sector are often less inclined to empathise than those in healthcare. Research suggests that, in conditions of increased competition, friendly leaders may be slower to react to changes, which is why they are often replaced by more direct, less empathetic leaders in times of crisis. Nevertheless, basic decency and respect for employees remain key elements of successful management.