Leading from the Rear

When most people think of a leader, they think the guy in front of the charge.  The guy with the sword held high carrying the flag saying take that hill. And, there are times the leader must be in front of the organization, setting the example.

However, that is most often not the case.  It is actually easier to lead from the front then it is to maintain a rear position and still be in charge.  An effective leader is almost never near the front line operation.  Managers, on the other hand, need to be at the frontline so they know the job is being done the way they want it.  Leaders know the job is being done whether they see it, or not.

It comes down to training, trust and communication.  When your subordinate leaders have been properly trained, the only thing they need is your guidance to get the job done.  You will never hear someone being accused of micro leading.  Yet, micromanaging has become commonplace in the world of management.

In order to lead from the rear, two things must happen.  Number one, your subordinate leaders must know how you think act and feel. If they do not know who you are, they cannot lead on your behalf.  Second, once you have given them guidance, get out of their way.  If you have given them what they need to do the job, the last thing they need is you.  

Over my life, I have worked in several different types of organizations.  Me personally, I could never work in a management based organization again.  I've witnessed time and time again how management stifles creativity and limits the ability of people to do incredible things.  I was a plant manager in a leadership based organization.  It was family owned and operated and you felt good while doing the job.  Then, the company was sold to a management based corporation.  I watched as an organization that had grown in double digits for the past several years was completely destroyed within two years of the buyout.  The corporation who bought the company, blamed the economy for the failure.  Whatever.  When the original owners bought the company back for a fraction of what they sold it for, it once again became a thriving, successful company.  

This brings to mind a phrase that I have witnessed an action.  A leader can successfully manage, but a manager will very seldom lead. 

Now, get off the bench and get back in the game.

Have an amazing day,

Coach Papa