Member-only story
I once had the opportunity to engage with the CEO of a successful SME. The CEO was impressive. He built his company from scratch, now employs over 200 people, and his company has an annual turnover of around $100 million.
As we chatted, the CEO realized that I am active in the Grassroots and that my fellow volunteers and I are focused on helping the less fortunate in our community. Upon realizing this, the CEO launched into a tirade about how I — the Grassroots Organizations and the Government — are doing things wrong.
Listening to him speak, it became evident that he had zero experience in community service and helping the less fortunate. This prompted me to offer some clarifications and insights. Unfortunately, my efforts were met with contempt. From his response, it was apparent that felt he was the CEO of a multi-million dollar company and, as such, he is smarter than me and that I am not in a position to correct him. Remembering what my senior used to say about the teacher appearing when the student was ready, I disengaged.
Reflecting on this encounter, it occurred to me that such a leadership mindset is not uncommon. Perhaps not as blatant as this example, but senior leaders often mistake their title for wisdom. When this happens, leaders, who do not know a subject matter deeply, will either ignore or go against the advice of the subject matter experts in their team.
To me, effective leaders, need to be aware and accept the gaps in their knowledge and experience. And, where gaps exist, know how (and have the courage) to leverage the knowledge and experience of the experts in their teams. In today’s VUCA world, the leader cannot know it all …. and often does not.
Something to think about.
