Lessons in Leadership from the Ski Slopes
Recently, I had the pleasure of hitting the slopes in Colorado with my friend Lynne, who is not only an impressive skier but also a natural leader (she had a long and successful career in a variety of technical leadership roles). As we navigated the mountain together, I couldn't help but notice how her approach to skiing mirrored different leadership styles. Here are three valuable insights I gleaned from our ski adventure:
Leading from the Front: Carving the Path
When Lynne skied in front of me, she led the way with confidence and skill, carving a path down the mountain and demonstrating what great technique looks like. Similarly, in leadership, there are times when it's crucial to lead from the front. This approach involves setting a clear vision, providing direction, and inspiring others through action. By leading from the front, leaders can instill confidence, motivate their team, and pave the way for success, much like Lynne did with me.
Leading from the Side: Providing Support and Guidance
At other times, Lynne chose to ski alongside me, offering up-close demonstrations and support as we tackled challenging terrain (okay, maybe challenging for me, but not her). This reminded me of the importance of leading from the side. Instead of taking center stage, leaders who lead from the side empower and support their team members, fostering collaboration, and providing guidance when needed. By working alongside their team, leaders can cultivate trust, encourage teamwork, and facilitate individual growth.
Leading from Behind: Observing and Coaching
Lastly, there were moments when Lynne skied behind me, observing my technique and offering valuable feedback to help me improve. This mirrors the approach of leading from behind in leadership, also known as servant leadership. Leaders who lead this way prioritize the needs of their team, providing mentorship, and creating opportunities for growth. By stepping back and supporting their team members from behind, leaders can empower others to take the lead, foster a culture of trust, and ultimately, achieve collective success.
As I reflect on the leadership styles Lynne used on the slopes with me, it's clear that versatility is key. While each approach and “position” has its merits, effective leadership often requires a combination of all three. So, where do you find yourself - at the front, the side, or behind? And how can you expand your leadership approach to encompass all three, ensuring your leadership is as dynamic and effective as what I experienced on the mountains of Colorado?