Are you a beloved leader?
How would you feel if you walked into your office one morning, a normal workday, to be greeted by your employees all over the world, hailing “You’re the Man”? That’s exactly what happened to Mark Sebba, retiring CEO of Net-A-Porter. View the video to see for yourself…
I was interested in what Mark had done and who he has been in his 11 years as CEO that would cause this outpouring of love, honouring and celebration. I did not find much on him and why he is so loved, so I reflected on my experiences leading teams and as a strategy consultant and coach. I have been very blessed to interact with leaders who are truly loved by their employees and this is what I observe:
- They keep their egos in check. They stay in the background and allow their team members to take the spotlight and the credit. I often observe that they say “we” rather than “I” in their public pronouncements and physically stay in the background. They allow, encourage and even push others to take centre stage.
- The buck stops with them. They take responsibility for results and are quick to acknowledge their role. They readily admit their failings, fears and vulnerabilities, and are quick to offer sincere apologies. And then they take action to find solutions together with their team.
- They share experiences. When things are not going well, they share the pain in tangible and visible ways. For example Haruka Nishimatsu, the former CEO of Japan Airlines, when forced to cut salaries for his employees cut his own.
- They take the time to know their employees, not just as workers, but as human beings with lives outside of work. They know about their families, their aspirations, their hobbies, their pets by having meaningful conversations. They believe that connecting with their employees is their job, not an unwelcome interruption to work deemed more important.
- Fundamentally, leaders who are beloved, love. They genuinely LOVE their employees and sincerely want the best for each and every one. This shows in their words – yes, they use the L-word (LOVE) and most importantly in their deeds.
Being a beloved leader is never the goal for a leader who is loved. Indeed, it seems to matter very little. What is important is that their team members are able to perform at their very best, not just at work, but in all areas of their lives. And to make sure that happens, they are rooted in love. They may call it “caring”, “compassion” or “thoughtfulness” but it really is just LOVE.
TAKE ONE ACTION
OK. So this might sound really crazy. But it works. I know, because it works for me. Before you go to work each morning, look in the mirror and say each of your team members’ names out loud and then “I love you”. Try it and see what happens.
INTERESTING LINKS
Haruka Nishimatsu, the former CEO of Japan Airlines arrives at work by bus, dines in the company cafeteria, has an open office (knocked down his walls), and regularly interacts with his employees on the front lines. His employees seem to have liked him (he is now retired). Maybe they even love him.
– click to view article and video
Of course you want to please your customers. After all, you LOVE them. Here are 7 questions to ask to get honest feedback on how you can delight them.
– click to view article
