Today, I was part of a leadership conference. Many of us get excited when we have this opportunities to hear and learn something new. Or same things we know, but with a new twist to it. I got energized by this small glimpse of history. Those who know me, I am not at all a fan of history. I do not really pay attention to what happened long time ago. This particular incident actually paves a good lesson to aspiring managers. So I decide to share on a quick blog here.
Many of you may know about Terra Nova Expedition. I have to admit here, I am not so sure whether I have learned about this in school days or not. The host today talked about this. Interesting story. Two expedition to south pole. Both did not know they were doing this (I am not sure about this). But they wanted to be first one to reach the south pole. Robert Falcon Scott from Britain and Roald Amundsen from Norway were the two teams leaders. Robert Falcon had only one ambition. Conquer it. He pushed his team members as much as he can. They worked so hard daily. Every single day, he pushed his team to better their efforts.
Roald Amundsen on the other hand asked his team to do 20 miles a day. Regardless of what it is. He did not push the staff, but encouraged them daily to do what they do their BEST. He also did not had any schedule. As long as the 20 miles are done in a day he was happy. You can now see two different strategies as leaders. This is definitely thought provoking for me. I myself is a leader. Which path I should be taking? Many leadership conferences we will get something like this thought provoking isn’t it.
At the end Norwegian team gets to south pole 34 days before the British team lead by Scott. None of the Scott team including him did not make it back. They all perished in this journey. The lesson is simple. As a leader, lead the team, not push them. See the goal and circumstances. Team will support and deliver if they are treated well. If you respect them you will get the results. As a leader Roald knew the health of his team is more important. They are in the rough seas. They need to take it steady but with same pace. What does this remind you guys?
Story of rabbit and turtle isn’t it? Slow and steady wins the race. All the leaders out there, you don’t need to micro manage your employees. They will deliver if you give them the trust. You hired them once by seeing their ability. They will deliver, Keep them on track and motivate them. I am delighted to hear this story. Don’t you?
Disclaimer- I did not read any facts about the above said story. I heard it from the host and felt it was great to share. If you are a historian and have lots of insight, I do not offend anyone here. Just a small story to reflect a little on leadership styles. That is all this blog intend to do so. Thank you.
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