When we are too close to an issue, we can’t see the forest for the trees. Leaders who normally know exactly what to do about an issue can be blinded when the problem involves them or people they care deeply about. The wise leader seeks to increase distance and gain perspective at such times, often using others as a sounding board to test their objectivity. Distance, after all, allows for viewing people and issues from more angles and altitudes.
Personally, I don't think having the relationship is enough. I have a great relationship with my 'bosses'. They understand at a very high level what I do and what my team does. However, when it comes time to make decisions that will effect the operations of my team, they pull me into the conversation because they know they're missing information. I think this is rare though. Most often, I see leaders 'think they know' and make uninformed decisions that their people then have to live with or clean up afterward. IMHO Admired Leaders 'bring along' their people who are in the best position to make the decision and push the decision making down to the lowest level necessary to make the most informed decision.
I think it is important for leaders to continue to have some 'skin in the game' when it comes to the teams they lead. Not that they can do everything their teams do, but if there was an emergency, they can keep the lights on (thinking of resetting the security systems in Jurassic Park when Newman the IT Admin bails).
So true, In Cary’s culture, we call “distance” getting up into the “balcony” from the “dancefloor” (Leadership on the Line – adaptive leadership model). Or and/or also, adding someone to the team or getting an advisor who has “fresh eyes.” Another great post that’s importance can’t be overstated!
Personally, I don't think having the relationship is enough. I have a great relationship with my 'bosses'. They understand at a very high level what I do and what my team does. However, when it comes time to make decisions that will effect the operations of my team, they pull me into the conversation because they know they're missing information. I think this is rare though. Most often, I see leaders 'think they know' and make uninformed decisions that their people then have to live with or clean up afterward. IMHO Admired Leaders 'bring along' their people who are in the best position to make the decision and push the decision making down to the lowest level necessary to make the most informed decision.
I think it is important for leaders to continue to have some 'skin in the game' when it comes to the teams they lead. Not that they can do everything their teams do, but if there was an emergency, they can keep the lights on (thinking of resetting the security systems in Jurassic Park when Newman the IT Admin bails).
So true, In Cary’s culture, we call “distance” getting up into the “balcony” from the “dancefloor” (Leadership on the Line – adaptive leadership model). Or and/or also, adding someone to the team or getting an advisor who has “fresh eyes.” Another great post that’s importance can’t be overstated!