In the days following the disastrous results of Katrina and Lake Pontchartrain’s subsequent breach of the levees in New Orleans, the US has focused on failures in leadership. Lessons Learned are part of an After Action report that is developed after the heat of the battle, not during it. Every available resource, including brain power, should be focused on solving the problems at hand and anticipating those upcoming in the near future.
Long ago these key ingredients of leadership shouod have been in place. Decisiveness; Objectivity–Hire the right person for the job; and Confidence–Count on self-leadership.
1. Decisiveness. Be decisive. Seldom are we presented with ALL the facts, especially in an emergency. Get help to gather all the information you can from varying perspectives given the time available. You will need to determine what is fact and what is opinion. Be aware of hidden agendas. Refer to existing plans. Think. Ask questions; drill down, ask more questions. When you get conflicting information, and you will, choose which to believe. If you have a mastermind group, confer with them. Refer to your past experience and personal knowledge. Say a prayer and announce your decision.
Of course, there are risks. As more information becomes available, the decision may need to be adjusted. Stay involved.
2. Objectivity. Hire the right person for the job–not your friend, son, daughter, or wealthiest supporter. Surround yourself with competent, experienced people. Know what you want. Have a job description before advertising or announcing the vacancy. Select critical success factors. During the interview, focus on capabilities you are looking for and past experience. Listen carefully. Provide ‘what if’ scenarios and allow the job candidate to use their analytical skills in the process if that’s a job requirement. Check references and listen to what is not said as well as what is said. If you need to hone your listening skills, click here to get started. Be objective and select the best person for the job.
Political appointees are part of our political process. That will not change. The key is to place experienced career public servants in high-level supporting roles and give them a voice in the decision-making process. They are the experts.
The challenge for career public servants is to sway with political changes; their promise is to be apolitical. When all parties are focused on the good of the country and willing to collaborate in solving problems, their task is much easier.
3. Confidence. Lead Yourself. Don’t wait to be led by others. Develop personal leadership skills. Take time to reflect on your inner being and your strengths. Who are you? What are your core values? What inspires you? What makes life work for you? List your skills and abilities. Learn all you can about leadership and influencing people and situations around you. Collaborate with others and improve your communication skills.
In the disaster relief center at Kelly USA where I volunteered on Friday after the disaster, I saw many men leading their families, babies in arms, to their designated cots. They were dirty and unshaven, some without shoes, but they were in charge. Early arrivals with children in tow were in search of clean clothes and showers. Some were alone, dazed and exhausted. By Tuesday people were arriving from the hospital, eager to begin putting their lives back together again. The Red Cross had done an admirable job of organizing the center, based on plans, rehearsals, and past experience.
