Leading through conversations
I’m sitting in the Kasbah du Toubkal, http://www.kasbahdutoubkal.com/ a unique venue in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains in Morocco. I’m here as part of a team delivering a leadership programme for the European division of a global company. The European MD was here this morning, and he spoke eloquently for two and half hours, without notes or props, to thirteen senior managers. He wove together a compelling story that showed his complete grasp of the business, producing and selling a range of products across ten countries. The depth and breadth of his knowledge was inspiring, as was his honesty about both the opportunities and challenges they faced.
Someone asked about his personal priorities and how he led the business. His answer was telling. “I rely on having very good people reporting to me, and I spend as much time as I can getting out and having conversations. I’ve got to get face to face with people and really understand what they’re thinking, and helping them understand where we’re going. We get things done in this business through our networks and relationships.”
It’s refreshing to hear such a capable, senior leader acknowledging the need for human contact, and the power of conversation – especially as these are key messages in the programme we’re delivering!
