I was recently reading an article about the differences between a Boss and a Leader and it is obvious which is preferred in the long term running of a business, but are there ever circumstances when the business and people need a Boss?
Many of the traits shown by a boss are critical in times of high changeability and crisis and should not be so easily dismissed in moving towards a society that only applauds the Leader.
A company that is going through a huge amount of change that impacts it's employees, may require a leader to take control of the situation and quickly for the benefit of everyone, this controlling approach should not be maintained for long periods, but can be effective and even build longer-term trust if used correctly. Employees above all want a leader to make some hard decisions at times for the greater good, creating a feeling that your leader has things under control.
Taking a short term view may also be needed at times to get things moving and to stimulate discussion and passion among employees, it does not have to mean that the longer-term vision is lost, it shows that as a leader you can be agile and not so rigid you miss what is happening here and now.
Imitate what others are doing-especially if it is something you believe in, why not collect the best ideas and mould them into something great.
Empowering people is only achievable when you have a great team and they fully understand what their roles are, and how they impact others. An example would be taking on someone new into your business and empowering them to get on and do what they do best, surely that is why you hired them? Imagine the impact on the business and everyone around them.
At times you need the captain to step up and take the helm, especially during rough seas, this is their role as a true leader and what people expect. The real secret is to know when it is time to step down again and allow your team to steer the ship.
Gary Silversides; CEO
Related content: Burden of Leadership
