Market Leadership Through Innovative HR Practices

Abstract

Human beings are essentially good. They are capable of delivering value to customers, if they are treated well and trusted. They can even "move mountains" if they are inspired to give their best. Ordinary people can deliver extraordinary results. It is here, probably, leadership plays a key role. Great leaders have that knack of spotting talent and letting it go. There are inspiring corporate stories about how strategic leaders bring about radical change by sticking to what they know best. Southwest Airlines is a shining example of corporate excellence gained through novel, creative HR practices. Full credit Herb Kelleher, who won the Best CEO award several times, for trusting his people and making them think and act like owners. In a brutal industry, he has created history of sorts by pushing his people to the limits by standing by their side—unmoved by the lethal impacts created by cruel market forces for over 3 decades. The rest is history. The company stands very tall in an industry marked by turmoil, complexity, chaos and confusion. The paper present a snapshot of how the company is able to reach the summit through creative HR practices.

Keywords: Human beings, leaders, HR practices, value, excellence