Leadership is About Responding with Ability

In a recent interview, an executive was discussing, although it sounded suspiciously like complaining to me, how disastrous the business had become.

When questioned if he had read a 1000 page reform that would have massive impacts on his business and the industry at large, he responded, "I didn't have time to read the document."

Next, he asked the interviewer what were the three to four major issues that reform was addressing. Fortunately, she knew the answer (she had read the reform in preparation for the meeting) It was clearly apparent that she was much more prepared as an outsider to deal with his industry change than he was as the so-called expert.

The interview continue along the same vein, for each question, he didn't know and then he would asked her a question. Great technique if you hold to the philosophy that you only asked questions if you already know the answer. Clearly, he didn't have a clue regarding what his responsibilities were as the leader.

Close to the end of the interview, you could actually see the light bulb come on in this guy's brain. "I know. I'll tell the board that I am forming a committee to address this change and that the committee will be meeting weekly to discuss. What do you think?" he asked of the interviewer.

She looked totally astonished and quickly ended the interview.

Great lesson from this interview, be aware of owning the role, being able to respond with ability and come across as the leader who is truly in command.