DayBreak Enterprises

Last year I was working with a leader who was known for his competence. He knew his industry and competitors like nobody’s business. His leadership style was very commanding. He was aggressive and decisive and never let anyone wander from his agenda in meetings. His meetings ended on time every time.

I was also working with another leader who was seen as highly competent in his role, yet his leadership style was almost the opposite. He always listened to everyone, was super empathetic, included everyone in the discussion and insisted on consensus building to make decisions. His meetings ran long most of the time.

Both leaders were getting results in terms of completing initiatives, so why were they coaching? Because they were out of balance.

Great leaders know how to balance competence, control and connection. The first leader was all about control, while the second was all about connection. Can you guess how that translates to the effectiveness of their teams?

The controlling leader did not engage the hearts of his team. Yes, they complied with his requests, but nobody gave discretionary effort. Nor did they get stretch assignments. The leader’s legacy as an individual contributor was securely intact as he took credit for his team’s work. His team was seen as productive, but they left his department or the company at every opportunity. Recruitment and training costs took a big bite of his revenues.

The connecting leader gained a reputation for being unwilling to make tough decisions and lacking assertiveness. He was great at developing his team and giving them visibility and credit. Because he was so inclusive, it took him a long time to make decisions and get things done. His team was also productive and was recognized for their valuable contributions. Many were being promoted, but he was not.

I remember thinking, if I could blend these two leaders, they would be unstoppable.

Studies show strong, effective leaders need to not only be competent, but also balance control with connection. Are you in balance, or do you lean one way or the other? If you aren't getting all the results you want, it might be a good time to look in the mirror.

It’s your choice. Make it count.