Two Leaders, numerous lessons in leadership
Many of you have asked about my assessment of the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. I'll be sharing my thoughts this week on this channel and on my LinkedIn feed. I do not wish to make light of, or overlook the seriousness of what is happening in Ukraine but I thought I would highlight the lessons of leadership which are pouring out of it. Never is leadership more important than in times of crisis. Here are a few.
Valdimir Putin is reported to have isolated himself, listens to no one and makes all decisions himself. Lessons:
Always keep divergent people close to counter your assumptions and offer you a different view. You'll make better decisions.
Listen to others, especially when the stakes are high.
Empower your people with decision-making authority nested with your intent. Clearly define the threshold of what needs to come to you for decision but power down everywhere that you can.
Volodymyr Zelensky wears a bullet-proof vest and breaks bread with his soldiers. Lesson:
It is important for leaders to travel down to the lowest rung of their organization to interact, listen, share hardship, and show their people, they are not above getting their hands dirty.
Valdimir Putin is reportedly steaming mad at his generals for not making progress - has fired some of them. Lessons:
Lack of ownership. He sent them on this failed mission - he owns the failures.
Losing your cool and taking the easy way out - firing people is a characteristic of a bad leader.
Volodymyr Zelensky inspires his country with his words, Valdimir Putin defends himself and makes excuses. Zelensky: "I don't need a ride, I need weapons." "When you attack us, you'll see our faces, not our backs." Lessons:
Leaders inspire by talking about what makes their organization special, by never backing down to an obstacle, no matter how insurmountable.
Leaders craft their words and narrative carefully as they know (or should know) that their people will hang on to their every word.
You will probably not ever see Valdimir Putin in a military uniform, walking the streets rallying his troops. You will see Volodymyr Zelensky doing just that. Lessons:
Leaders know where they physically belong when the chips are down and what they should say - word and deed.
Leadership requires bravery. You may not have all the answers, but if you believe in what you are doing, and are willing to share hardship and inspire your people, you will win in the long run.
In a very short period Volodymyr Zelensky has gone from a highly unpopular comedian and actor turned president to an inspiring leader on a world stage. Leadership matters and it is the simple acts of leadership which make the difference to the lives and livelihoods of our people.
My prayers remain with the country of Ukraine, its people, and its leader.
Rob Campbell
Rob Campbell