JS Tip 3: On Leadership: The Leadership Imperatives

 

Leadership has two imperatives:

·       Get the job done.

·       Take care of your people.

The list has bullets instead of numbers. The two are equal. Balancing the two is central to good leadership.

In 1989, Colonel Ben Vandervoort (played by John Wayne in “The Longest Day”) was named as the “Outstanding Combat Leader of World War II.” When notified of the award, Colonel Vandervoort insisted, “I want the award to honor my men as well as it honors me.” 

A possible discussion: What is a leader’s role? What do you think? Let us know your thoughts. Talk to your friends and co-workers. What do they suggest?