I like humor. I love abstract. And am a big fan of great managers. My next few blogs would be a combination of these three. I’ll try to bring in some humor, but ensure you get yours when you are reading these 😃
This is the transcript of the ACTUAL radio conversation of a British Naval Ship and the Irish, off the coast of Kerry, Oct 95. Radio conversation released by the Chief of Naval Operations:
Irish: Please divert your course 15 degrees to the South, to avoid a collision.
British: Recommend you divert your course 15 degrees to the North, to avoid a collision.
Irish: Negative. You will have to divert your course 15 degrees to the South to avoid a collision.
British: This is the captain of a British navy ship. I say again, divert your course.
Irish: Negative. I say again, You will have to divert your course.
British: This is the aircraft carrier HMS Invincible. The second largest ship in the British atlantic fleet. We are accompanied by three destroyers, two missile cruisers, and numerous support vessels. I demand that you change your course, 15 degrees north, I say again, that is 15 degrees north, or counter-measures will be undertaken to ensure that safety of this ship.
Irish: We are a lighthouse. Your call.
<cracks me up every time I read this>
I don’t see a distinction between a manager and a leader. You lead people well or you lead them miserably, but you don’t manage them. You manage situations, you manage goods, but you LEAD people. I know you got the drift, sometimes I can get senti about this topic 😃 😝
To me, great managers are like a lighthouse. They are a beacon, they light your path.
They have a vision, clear foresight and sense of direction
Many people and teams go adrift. They navigate the way, both in good and tough times. Showing the path, always
You don’t need them when the seas are calm, but realize their worth when there’s a storm
Provide hope and build resilience during tough times
They don’t dictate orders, but keep everyone focused on the job and more importantly provide safety (psychological)
Remember:
When you lead people, remember to imbibe these. They don’t have to report to you necessarily but you’d still lead them.
When you find a manager with these qualities, appreciate it. Let them know. So that their tribe can grow.
But there is no one situation a manager would face, or you’d come across, so there are different roles they have to play… but worry not, I have figured out a few more abstract stuff for next few Fridays… watch out for more!
