Learn From Lincoln

You can learn a lot about current business and management by looking back at history.  One technique that I have always used is “Management by walking around”.    Apparently, this was a major focus of President Lincoln’s, and is documented in the book, Lincoln on Leadership.  You can gather a good deal of information by just walking around and talking to co-workers and employees.  It is a little more difficult in today’s virtual world, but can be managed with a phone call asking “How’s it going?” instead of just sending an email.

Another strong leadership tool that Lincoln implemented was putting his ego aside and placing people on his staff that fundamentally disagreed with him.  We all want our ideas to be accepted, but if everyone around you consists of just “yes people,” then it is time to get some fresh eyes on your ideas.  Respectful disagreement is a great way to redefine your vision for everyone to follow, and not just those that support you.  This kind of disagreement will also help you better defend your position when you are working with those that challenge or disagree with you.  I am not suggesting that you find those who disagree with you just for the sake of disagreeing, but find those that might have constructive opposing views and see where they are coming from.  You don’t have to change your stance or position, but I guarantee your position will be much stronger for doing this.

Consultants are a great resource because they don’t have as much stake in the game as your employees do, however, they have the same goal to help you succeed.  It is much easier to bounce your ideas off of an outside consultant and get their view, instead of someone who is worried about moving up the corporate ladder or how their opinion will affect their next raise.

Tags: Leadership, Management