When it comes to nature symbiotic relationships are a testament to the power of collaboration and mutual benefit. This concept mirrors the dynamics of effective leadership and management in the workplace, where the harmonious interplay between different roles creates a balanced and thriving environment.
Great Leaders: The Outward Visionaries
Great leaders are akin to the Oak Tree and the Mushroom in nature, each providing and receiving support in a mutual exchange. They look outwards, focusing on competitors, future trends, and alternative routes forward. Like eagles soaring high, they identify patterns, connections, and weak points in the market to leverage. These visionaries and strategists are the activators, pushing the organisation towards new horizons.
Great Managers: The Inward Nurturers
In contrast, great managers are like the Bee and the Flower, each playing a vital role in the other’s life cycle. They focus inward, understanding each individual’s unique style, goals, needs, and motivations. They are the nurturers within their teams, guiding individual talents into performance.
The 4 Keys of a Great Manager
The ‘Catalyst’ role of a manager involves selecting the right person, setting clear expectations, motivating, and developing them. These are crucial for turning individual talents into performance.
HR’s Role in Leadership Development
HR professionals play a pivotal role in helping leaders identify whether they are outward visionaries or inward nurturers. By supporting leaders in embracing their natural styles, HR can foster a more effective and engaged workforce.
Conclusion
Understanding and embracing the distinct roles of leaders and managers is key to a thriving workplace. Perhaps the key to improving employee engagement lies in recognising and valuing these distinct roles. To my HR colleagues: How do you help your leaders identify and own their unique leadership style? Could this be the missing link in why only 23% of the global workforce is thriving, while a staggering 77% are not engaged or actively disengaged?
