By: Unstoppable Branding Agency

The world of leadership is evolving. Traditionally, leaders were expected to maintain a strict separation between their personal and professional values, projecting an image of authority and control. These leaders gave orders, demanded results, and rarely revealed their personal struggles or vulnerabilities. This “top-down” style often left teams feeling uninspired, disconnected, and disengaged.

But Reena Merchant, a tech leader with over 20 years of experience managing teams at Google, YouTube, Sony PlayStation, Citrix, and BlackBerry, represents a different approach to leadership—one that’s rooted in transparency, empathy, and authenticity. Through her own journey, Reena advocates for a style that unites personal integrity with professional influence, empowering teams to do their best work.

Yet this shift in Reena’s leadership wasn’t without its challenges. Early in her career, she was encouraged to adopt a more traditional leadership style: to “come down harder” on her team, set stricter demands, and lead with an authoritarian presence. “There was pressure to be louder, more authoritative, and more demanding,” Reena recalls. “But it didn’t feel authentic to me. I wanted to lead in a way that felt true to who I was.”

Reena chose to take a different path, leading her team through empathy and open communication. It wasn’t long before her decision to lead authentically began to pay off. She noticed that her team was more motivated, engaged, and committed, leading to greater productivity and creativity. “When I showed up as myself, I saw how it opened the door for others to do the same—and that’s when real results began to show,” she says.

Moving Beyond Traditional Leadership Norms

Reena’s decision to embrace authenticity isn’t just a personal choice—it reflects a larger shift in what today’s workforce values. According to a study by LinkedIn, nearly 86% of millennials—the largest generation in today’s workforce—would consider taking a pay cut if it meant working at a company whose values aligned with their own. Moreover, a recent study by PwC found that 79% of employees believe it’s important for their company to match their values. As workers increasingly prioritize meaningful work environments over higher salaries, traditional leadership models that rely on control and rigidity are becoming less effective.

“People perform at their best when they feel connected to a leader’s mission and values,” Reena says.

Fostering Innovation Through Authentic Connections

According to Reena, leading authentically is also the key to unlocking creativity. By encouraging her team to bring their whole selves to work, she cultivates environments where people feel safe to contribute unique ideas and perspectives. “We see more innovation and productivity when people feel safe to take risks,” she explains.

Reena’s approach invites it unlike traditional leadership models that can stifle creativity. Her teams are empowered to voice bold ideas without fear of judgment, which leads to creative breakthroughs and outside-the-box solutions. This kind of supportive atmosphere doesn’t just drive individual success—it also enhances a company’s ability to innovate and stay competitive.

Retaining Talent Through Empathy and Respect

For Reena, empathy isn’t just a leadership strategy; it’s essential to creating a work environment that people want to be a part of long-term. Reena fosters a culture of genuine respect and mutual support by showing up authentically and encouraging others to do the same.

Today’s workforce is increasingly seeking work environments where they feel valued and understood. In fact, research from Gallup shows that employees who feel engaged at work are 87% less likely to leave the organization. Reena’s empathetic leadership creates a culture where people feel a genuine sense of belonging, reducing turnover and enhancing overall satisfaction.

“People stay when they feel connected to something meaningful,” she shares. Her teams don’t just work with her out of obligation—they feel part of a mission they believe in. This commitment is built on the foundation of empathy, respect, and a deep sense of purpose. “In the old paradigm, people stayed out of fear of losing their jobs. But in today’s world, people stay because they feel valued and understood.” Through this empathetic leadership, Reena has created a workplace where loyalty and retention are natural outcomes.

Leading the Way to a New Era of Leadership

At a time when people are seeking purpose and connection more than ever, Reena Merchant’s approach to leadership offers a blueprint for the future. The philosophy she embodies, rooted in authenticity, empathy, and transparency, reflects a profound shift from the rigid structures of the past. “When leaders show up as their true selves,” Reena says, “it opens the door for everyone else to do the same. And that’s where real impact happens—within the team, the company, and beyond.”

Her approach inspires and is an inspiring example of how modern leadership can transform teams, empower individuals, and create a ripple effect of positive change. In today’s evolving workplace, leaders like Reena aren’t just succeeding—they’re redefining what it means to lead.

Published by: Josh Tatunay