I was in a Junior High Gymnasium with hundreds of other parents packed into the stands watching our children perform the holiday concert. Fortunately I was not sweating profusely as this would have surely bothered the people around me.
As we watched this concert the band played one song that really intrigued me. The song did not necessarily pique my interest as much as watching the percussion section. This particular song was entitled “Nightmare Before Christmas.”
During the song a few percussionists ran back and forth to various styles of drums, bells, cymbals and even multiple random sound effects. I watched in amazement at how they could manage all those various roles and execute with perfect timing so the song sounded as it should. This is when it struck me that I was seeing a picture of leadership and teamwork at play.
A COMMON VISION
Just like with any group, organization, or team there has to be a common purpose everyone is working toward. In this case each individual had to contribute their part at the right time, in the right way in order to blend into the overall sound. We all know when someone makes a miscue in a concert and ends up embarrassing themselves. On the other hand, when everyone performs their role at the right time in the right way you have a beautiful symphony. As leaders we must provide the vision and the best roles for each individual.
PRACTICE
Whether we are selling a product or service, instructing a team or individual, speaking in front of a group of people, or participating in a band we have to practice. A leader’s practice comes with thinking ahead and creating a plan. Let me illustrate.
During a coaching session recently, I was discussing the vision of a specific department in an organization with a leader. Our conversation provided an opportunity for clarifying the communication of his vision to his team. This conversation was a business leader’s version of practice. Leaders must create space to think into their communication and leadership the same as band members must practice their skills.
FULFILL YOUR ROLE
What would happen if the trumpets decided they did not want to follow the music and just played whatever and whenever they wanted? The conductor would be quite mad and embarrassed. Creativity is essential, but once the vision is clear and the plan is agreed on everyone must do their part to fulfill the vision. When we fulfill our specific role and purpose to the best of our ability, we add tremendous value to the group.
What is the band you are a part of? What is the common vision you are pursuing? Is that vision clear in your mind if you are the leader or do you need to spend time thinking and clarifying it . . . kind of like practice? What is your part in the orchestra of that plan? How can you use your strengths in that role to help make the fulfillment of the vision even greater? Do you need help thinking into these questions? If so, contact me for a complimentary coaching session. In the meantime, lead well.
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