LEADERSHIP: ADAPT OR DIE

At university, a friend decided to compete in the Modern Pentathlon. He was a good athlete and swimmer. But, knew nothing of pistol shooting, fencing or show jumping. I was no sportsman, but had grown up with horses and done some fencing. So, he asked for tips. And, asked another friend about shooting. From these slim pointers, he worked with the team coach and became quite accomplished - and very quickly.

What struck me was his adaptability to the core needs of each sport: partnership with his horse; fast responses in fencing; and, stillness for shooting.

As leaders, we each need to show such flexibility: recognising our skill gaps, being open to coaching and learning to understand new technologies or markets. And, as we progress, confronting our fears (as he did around horses) and learning from mistakes (as he did when he fell off). Always getting back up and trying again.

He had both inner and outer adaptability: of mindset and method - of psychology and skills. Without both, it's hard to be a leader for the long-term. And, it's harder still as we get older. The falls are more bruising, not least to our ego. And, it takes more out of us.

Think how your industry's been changing - and will change in the next couple of years. Are you up-skilling: do you really understand the new products? Are you effective at communicating with the younger employees? Can you admit you're wrong; or, seek assistance - even from those same young people?

How would your team rate you in each of these areas? Where would they say you need to show more adaptability - of mind or method? What would be top of their list? How can you work on that? Who could help you?

Here's how! So, be adaptable ... give it a go!

Categories for this Potshot:

Show self-leadership, Foster learning and reinventing, Monitor and shape change,

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