Three Business Leaders You Should Take Inspiration from

Truly inspirational business leaders are few and far between, but there are three who truly stand out to me. They show that the best way to lead is by example, and that you can combine getting to the top of the business world with humanity, empathy and compassion.

The first iconic leader is Sir Richard Branson. Branson kick started his Virgin Group with £300 given to him by his mother, building the company from next to nothing to the giant organisation it is today. Despite his success, it's never gone to his head.

Branson is keen to put employee wellbeing at the heart of what Virgin does. His logic is simple. If you look after your staff, they look after your customers. Behind the scenes Branson is a great motivator, with his favourite slogans including 'screw it, let's do it'. For a man who struggled with dyslexia at school, Branson has never been held back by business failures and always sees the positives.

The second leader is Sheryl Sandberg. Sandberg is both a top businesswoman and a philanthropist, having founded the non-profit organisation Lean In. Lean In's ambition is to motivate and inspire women and girls to achieve their life goals, giving them a space to discuss their experiences and learn from each other.

As Chief Operating Officer of Facebook, there's no doubt that Sandberg's is in one of the most important business and tech jobs on the planet. She's regularly voted into lists of the most influential people in the world, and she's the perfect example of showing business grit alongside humanity.

Last but not least, Warren Buffett. With a net worth of close to $79 billion, Buffett is one of the richest men in the world, and one of the most successful investors and business tycoons. He's also well known for supporting good causes, donating huge amounts of money.

In 2011 he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by Barack Obama, and he continues to support charitable organisations. He's even pledged to give 99% of his fortune to charity on his death. There aren't many top businessmen who are as generous to both their employees and to wider society.

There's a perception that you have to be hard-nosed and ruthless to get to the top of the business world. These three inspirational leaders prove that's not necessarily true.