WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR LEADERSHIP IS IN TROUBLE

LEADERSHIP IN TROUBLE

I read the story of a leader on a plane that ran into engine in mid air. As you might imagine everyone on the plane was caught up in the trouble. The leader did not go looking for trouble, trouble found him. Such is the life of a leader. What do you do when the result is not up to you?

The whole plane went into a flurry of activity. Everyone was checking where the exit routes were. Some were talking in low tones. Others were talking in loud tones. Some prayed others cried. Many wondered why they ever got onto the plane.  Everyone was looking for a way out, but stayed in their seats. Mandela sat reading his newspaper deliberately studying the pages in full view of everyone.

This story has a happy ending. The pilots were able to communicate and correct the trouble with the help of ground staff. When the plane landed safely, everyone thanked God and cheered the crew.

When asked why he was not scared, Mandela said in effect, "I was scared stiff, but I had to stay calm for the peoples sake". When Leadership is in trouble the one thing you cannot do is panic.  If you panic, the people will follow you. If you don't, they will assume something is being done. The second thing you need to do is let the experts do the job. Third, continue doing what you were doing, that may be the greatest value you can add to the situation. The impression you give may be the most powerful statement you can ever make on the spot.

Allan