In work, I want you to do exactly what I say without question. You don’t need to understand the task, and you don’t need to understand why the task is to be carried out. In fact, the only reason which concerns you is that I have instructed you to complete the task.
If you think the above paragraph is perfectly reasonable then don’t bother to read on as you are not and will never be a true leader. For the rest who believe that such an attitude has no place in business let me tell you that these were the very sentiments displayed by a so-called leader to one of our friends back in the 1980s. In those days, such dictatorial practices were far more commonplace; but then so were outward displays of sexism in the workplace and other practices which have no place in modern business life.
Thank goodness the workplace has evolved, and is still evolving, from those dark days. Blind obedience has generally been replaced by a more open and questioning relationship and this has been reflected in the way in which we help our employees to assimilate new tasks. So training, which was once delivered in instructional, or learning by rote form, has now opened up into a more blended form of learning which encompasses self study, one-to-one instruction, online learning and an element of formal classroom work.
Just as the role of leader has transformed, so too has the way in which they relate to their team. A leader’s role is now one of empowerment and enablement, helping people to make the most of their talents for their own benefit and for the benefit of the organisation. This has moved the relationship away from one of instruction and towards one of coaching. I no longer tell you what to do, I ask you what you think and help you to find a solution. I no longer confine your understanding to your immediate role, I help you to develop an appreciation of the business as a whole.
This change of emphasis will become more and more important as successive internet generations take their place in the workforce. The children of today are being taught to reason, to debate and to develop solutions. When facts and figures are freely available on the Internet, the imperative moves away from knowing and towards understanding. Leaders who are able to coach, to guide and to inspire will have the privilege of setting their people’s talent free.
If you’d like to learn more about leadership development and the leadership traits required to engage employee hearts and minds in the future of your company then feel free to get in touch at www.questleadershipdevelopment.com.
