The leader’s high horse is a donkey.
You have a unique set of abilities, but not everyone is remarkable.
Very few managers are remarkably gifted. Assume you aren’t one. About one in 10 people possess the talent to manage. Companies get talent decisions wrong 82% of the time. (Gallup)
A Leader on a High Horse
- Fault for failure lies with others.
- Ownership by others is low.
- Talent in others is devalued.
Assume you have far to grow.
A Leader on a Donkey
Humility exceeds superiority.
- Talent in others is valued.
- Authority is distributed.
- Accountability flows up and down.
- Recognition widens.
- Respect is earned.
7 Ways to Get on Your Donkey
- Evaluate yourself by how well you develop and maximize talent in others.
- Eliminate perks.
- Push decision-making to people closest to the action.
- Ask, “What do you think?”
- Learn and leverage coaching skills.
- Seek feedback aggressively.
- Own your mistakes and share what you’re learning.
Boldness requires clarity and belief.
Be clear on your role. Believe in your team.
Getting off a high horse is challenging. What do you suggest?
