“The organization is the family; the leader is the head of the family.” Donald T. Phillips
If you are reading this you are part of a family. That family could be your personal family that you are the mother of father of or it could be the one you were raised in. Maybe you lead an organization or team and that is your other family. How do you communicate within that “family”?
Years ago I read an excellent book on leadership by Donald T. Phillips. This book, Lincoln on Leadership, has many great lessons; but I want to highlight some principles Phillips mentions related to how a leader communicates.
Lincoln allowed his leaders to make decisions on their own. This is effective leadership, but only when the leaders embrace that responsibility. Phillips observes that Lincoln found his previous generals acted as if President Lincoln were the general until he empowered Grant. Grant took charge and made decisions on his own. This ability to make decisions independently of President Lincoln was a sign of a true leader.
Effective communication is essential to empower others well. Phillips highlights three guiding principles President Lincoln used in communicating persuasively as a leader.
EMPOWERMENT
Empowering leaders enable those who understand the situation best with the ability to make decisions. Lincoln trusted his leaders’ abilities to think into the situation and make the best possible decisions. This tactic created problems for Lincoln for a period of time as his generals multiple times failed to lead well until he hired Grant. Providing autonomy and authority risks failure from the young leader, but can also help the leader grow. (If you want to read more about empowering go here or here for previous posts I have written highlighting examples and lessons learned from other leaders)
OPENNESS
Phillips demonstrates Lincoln’s openness in communication by highlighting a letter written to Major General Hooker after he became general. In the letter the President is honest about both the strengths and weaknesses of Hooker’s situation which created increased respect from Hooker according to Phillips. As leaders we must be honest, sincere, and respectful in how we address another’s abilities in order to gain their respect.
COACHING
I would define coaching as the ability of a leader to help another think into their results through a questioning process. The way Lincoln demonstrated coaching with his war generals was through utilizing suggestions and recommendations. Phillips provides multiple examples of this ability to persuade through suggestion. Whether at work or home this skill is critical to helping us be more effective leaders.
Lincoln demonstrated his effective communication through utilizing these skills mentioned to help others see the value of what they are being asked to do and own the idea.
Leadership is never easy, but in wartime the ability to maintain effective communication is critical. What is the “war” or “battle” you are in? At home it could be raising a teenager or helping siblings fight more effectively. At work are there major decisions you are facing that need to be discussed with openness and candor in order to make the best decision possible? How could you improve your ability to gain commitment from those you lead? Set one action step today and move forward. Lead well.
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