Dead Russian Generals. Lessons in Leadership
Every time I check the news I yearn to see a headline which indicates a cease fire or something marking the end of fighting in Ukraine. I find the opposite and it is heartbreaking. Amidst the atrocities, there are numerous lessons for governing, national and international security, international commitments and partnerships, and of course, leadership.
I read a blog by the Rand Corporation this weekend written by Marek N. Posard and Khrystyna Holynska, entitled, "Russia's Problems with Military Professionalization." The blog highlights the many failures of the Russian military, resulting in-part in the reported deaths of several Russian Generals having to direct field activities in person. The death of one general in combat is a rare thing. The death of several indicates organizational flaws, not the least of which is bad leadership.
I'm not totally surprised by what I am hearing and seeing. I have personal experience with Russian style tactics and professionalism or the lack thereof. The Afghan and Georgian military, largely influenced by the former Soviet Union adhered, in part to this flawed model. At its core, it discouraged initiative and bold action at the lowest levels, where wars are fought and won (and where businesses succeed). I found young officers, staring at success yet stifled, waiting for approval from their commander before they took another step. I found leaders, disconnected from their troops, surrounded by perks, unwilling to share hardship. I found a lack of trust and camaraderie so important for effective units. It was disheartening and I, and so many other U.S. military leaders tried to 'train that out of them.' I've also seen elements of these flaws in private business. Here are a few of the many lessons dead Russian generals provide for us.
Build trust among the team - between leaders and followers, between individuals, and between teams.
Unite the organization behind a noble cause. Yours may only be 'dedicated service' to your customers but find that which bonds the organization - a mission or cause which is shared by all.
Empower and encourage initiative and bold action at the lowest levels of your organization.
Embrace failure as an opportunity for learning. Create the opposite of a zero-defect environment.
Along with your prayers for the Ukrainian people, spend some time contemplating why a general would need to travel to the front lines, through several echelons of leadership, overstepping numerous direct reports to push his or her people into action. Why has the Russian military failed so badly? What lesson or lessons does it offer for your organization?
Make it Personal!
Rob
Rob Campbell