Leading is an art, not a science by Melissa Carson

1 article/video left!

log in or sign up to unlock 3 more articles/videos this month and explore our expert resources.

Automatic Summary

Why Leadership Challenges have Risen and How to Tackle Them

The role of leaders is often deemed challenging, and in recent times, those challenges have seemingly exacerbated. Factors such as global teams, critical feedback, and increasing competition for talent contribute to these escalating challenges. Still, there are other prevalent difficulties like transitioning from an individual contributor to a leader, managing team resistance, and working alongside team members with varying priorities and career aspirations. To navigate these obstacles effectively, it calls for a shift in how we empower leaders in both strategy and mindset.

Rethinking Leadership – The Shift from Science to Art

Traditional leadership development practices often present a one-size-fits-all approach, focusing largely on individual goals and operating based on organizational core competencies and training workshops. However, the changing leadership landscape has shown that this model is become increasingly ineffective.

With the realization that there isn't a singular right way to lead, we recognize that successful leaders across politics, military, businesses, and communities all exude different styles of leadership. Additionally, the perception of teams has changed, understanding that leading one successful team could differ drastically from leading another, augmented by the varying characteristics, experiences, and motivations of the individuals involved.

The 'Imperfection Gremlins'

As leaders, it's essential to recognize and confront our imperfection gremlins or behaviors that could potentially hinder progress. These often surface as the imposter syndrome, being overly controlling, always in emergency mode, needing to play the hero, being overly perfectionistic or favoring a cookie-cutter approach. Acknowledging these behaviors is the first step towards harnessing them effectively.

The iCan Model – Navigating Leadership Effectively

To lead effectively, I propose using the iCan model involving four approaches:

  1. Intention: Establish the leader you aspire to be and the impact you desire to have on your team.
  2. Create: Design a plan to leverage the capabilities of each team member, commit to honing these abilities, and foster a collaborative team environment
  3. Action: Implement your plan pragmatically.
  4. Navigate: Adjust your plan as necessary when changes occur, whether it's team changes or changes in circumstances.

Addressing Leadership Questions

One question that often arises is how to deal with someone on your team who doesn't want to be known or recognized. The key here is understanding their motivations and addressing them respectfully. If they are content with their role and visibility, it's vital to honor that.

Another common question is how to measure success as a leader. Fundamental metrics include attrition rates and team engagement scores. However, the softer aspects should also be taken into account, such as team collaboration, discretionary energy, and enjoyment in working together.

In Conclusion – Your Artistic Influence

In your leadership journey, you need to ask yourself, - What artistic influences would you add to your leadership style? What practices could you implement today, and what do you wish your manager would do?

Remember, people are messy. Recognizing, accepting, and harnessing that messiness can lead to more effective leadership and ultimately, a more successful team. So, embrace the art of leadership!


Video Transcription

Read More