A Passion Ignited by Communication and Conflict Resolution
Lilas Makki, the passion for human resources (HR) was sparked by an early experience helping a family friend resolve a workplace conflict. That pivotal moment revealed to her the transformative power of clear communication and conflict resolution. The positive impact she witnessed drove her to pursue a career focused on creating inclusive work environments and guiding people in their professional journeys.
“Helping others navigate workplace issues and seeing how a situation could improve with proper communication was a turning point for me,” she reflects. “It made me realize how much I wanted to work in HR and be part of a profession that impacts people’s lives in meaningful ways.”
This initial interest in workplace dynamics led Lilas to carve out a niche for herself in HR. Her passion for helping people grow professionally, combined with a desire to foster positive work environments, has shaped her successful career in HR consulting and social media influence.
The Path to Becoming a Thought Leader in HR
Lilas’ journey into HR began in the high-paced world of startups, where she gained hands-on experience in balancing employee needs with business objectives. The fast-paced environment, though challenging, taught her the essential skills of resilience and adaptability.
“Startups can be chaotic, but they’re an excellent training ground. I learned quickly that managing employee expectations while keeping business goals in mind is a delicate balance. This early experience gave me the foundation to approach HR challenges with confidence and flexibility,” Lilas explains.
As she continued to hone her skills, Lilas realized that her strengths lay in empowering others through career guidance and conflict resolution. These skills, coupled with her passion for people-first leadership, have made her a sought-after figure in the HR industry.
Her biggest achievement to date is building a thriving HR consultancy while simultaneously growing a strong presence on Instagram. Through her platform, she has helped thousands of people navigate workplace issues and career development, earning her recognition as a leader in the field.
“My consultancy allows me to impact both individuals and companies. It’s fulfilling to know that the work I do improves lives and contributes to the success of businesses,” she shares.
Overcoming Early Career Challenges
While Lilas has found success in HR, her journey hasn’t been without its setbacks. Early in her career, she faced a significant challenge when an employee retention project she led didn’t meet the expected results. This experience taught her a valuable lesson about the importance of active listening and valuing feedback from all team members.
“I overlooked critical feedback from the team, and the project suffered as a result. It was a tough moment, but it reinforced the importance of empathy and open communication in leadership,” she recalls. “That experience changed how I approached HR. I began prioritizing active listening and creating strategies that considered every perspective.”
Since then, Lilas has become an advocate for people-first leadership, placing a strong emphasis on empathy in the workplace. She believes that understanding the diverse perspectives of employees fosters trust and collaboration, which in turn leads to a more inclusive and effective work environment.
Building a Legacy of Empowerment and Positive Change
Today, Lilas is focused on expanding her HR consultancy and building an even stronger presence on social media. Her goal is to reach a wider audience, helping more individuals and organizations navigate the complexities of career development and workplace challenges.
“I want to be a thought leader in HR, and that means constantly evolving and finding new ways to reach people,” she says. “Social media is an incredible tool for sharing knowledge and inspiring others.”
Lilas’ ambition is to leave a lasting legacy in the HR industry. She hopes to be remembered as a champion for employees’ rights, a leader who fostered inclusive work cultures, and someone who inspired others to prioritize well-being and development in the workplace.
“I want my legacy to be one of empowerment. I hope that future generations will value empathy, collaboration, and the well-being of employees in their careers,” Lilas states.
Lessons in Leadership and Advice for the Next Generation
Throughout her career, Lilas has had the opportunity to work with a mentor who greatly influenced her approach to HR. This mentor’s ability to handle complex workplace issues with empathy and professionalism left a lasting impression on her.
“My mentor taught me that empathy is one of the most valuable traits in leadership. It’s something I’ve carried with me throughout my career and apply to every situation,” she reflects.
Her advice to those entering the HR field or starting their careers is simple: embrace every opportunity for growth and learning, no matter how uncomfortable it may seem. Lilas also emphasizes the importance of building connections and seeking out mentors.
“Networking is invaluable. Surround yourself with supportive people, and never be afraid to ask for help or advice,” she advises. “And remember, setbacks are part of the journey – stay resilient and focused on your passion for helping others.”
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Lilas remains motivated by her long-term goals and the positive impact her work has on others. She’s expanding her HR consultancy and social media platform, aiming to become a leading voice in HR while helping individuals and companies thrive.
Her biggest motivation, however, comes from her family. She credits her supportive husband and children as her biggest cheerleaders and, at times, her most honest critics.
“My husband and kids are my greatest motivators. They keep me grounded and remind me of the bigger picture,” Lilas shares with pride.
As she continues to build her career, Lilas is committed to making a difference in the HR industry, empowering others, and fostering environments where both individuals and businesses can succeed.
“My goal is to keep empowering people, to help them realize their potential, and to create workplaces where everyone can thrive,” she concludes. “The journey is ongoing, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.”
