Where does the leader stand?

I've just recently come across the now debunked wolf-pack photo, described as having the sick and elderly at the front, backed up by the strongest, followed by the rest, and finally, followed by the leader.  The leader at the rear watches the entire pack, seeing the big picture, the complete vision, and safeguarding everyone.  It's a nice visual.

This created an internet firestorm however.  Even if we neglect the fact that that is not how the wolf pack operates, there are many who are eager to point out that the leader at the back of the pack is unable to provide immediate feedback and direction, and could possibly be hiding behind their team (ready to sacrifice them as needed).

The truth is, everyone is right.  There is no one perfect method of leadership that applies to every situation.  There may be situations with teams where it is best to provide big picture guidance from the rear and situations and teams where getting in the trenches is the best way to lead.

This is just talking about a leader at the rear or the front but there is everywhere in-between.

Where do you think the leader should stand?

-Alexander C. Cook MEng, MBA, PEng, PMP

Debunked wolf article and photo credit: http://www.snopes.com/wolf-pack-photo/

Sometimes the best way to motivate, is to not

In my experience, I have found that most people want to do a good job.  They go to work and they want to do their best.  There are some who are just floating by, but they seem to be the exception and not the norm.  In general, we have a decently motivated workforce going about their business and doing their jobs.  So, what goes wrong?

Leadership.

It's not that the workers aren't motivated, it's that they are de-motivated.  I've seen this, a lot.  There are leaders and managers out there that like to check up on their teams, to see how they are doing, even when there is no new information to give or to receive.  Sometimes that is just how people lead, and sometimes they feel like they aren't making enough of a contribution, so they go and push the team a bit, trying to "motivate" them, or get that 110%.

There's the problem.  If you don't have anything to offer, and there is nothing you need, think twice about trying to motivate your team.  Remember, in general, we have an already motivated workforce.  If they are already at 100%, pushing them to 110% is really like pushing them to 70%, and if you have nothing to offer, and don't need anything, well, not many people like to be micromanaged.

As leaders, sometimes a few well-placed words or a little information can drive a team to succeed, but our words can also do just the opposite if we aren't careful.

-Alexander C. Cook MEng, MBA, PEng, PMP

Image Souce: https://despair.com/products/leaders