Business challenges like deadlines, budget constraints, and logistical problems can often feel like battles. In these moments, leaders can find guidance from the historical example of President Abraham Lincoln, who led the United States through the Civil War while navigating conflicting interests and political adversaries.
Lincoln's effectiveness stemmed from his deep understanding of people and his application of several key principles that remain relevant for today's business leaders.
Get Out of the Office
Lincoln's first rule was to gain firsthand knowledge of his assets and challenges. In the early months of the war, he personally met and thanked new soldiers, spending more time away from the White House than in it. This approach, now known as Management By Walking Around (MBWA), demonstrated his respect for his people, from privates to generals.
He understood that assuming staff members fully know their teams isn't always accurate. Gaining direct insight into problems is crucial for ensuring everyone is aligned with the same objective.
Persuade Rather Than Order
He believed in persuasion over coercion. While Lincoln could have simply ordered people to follow his commands, he knew they would be more effective if they felt invested in the plan. By persuading his subordinates, he empowered them to be part of the solution, fostering deep commitment.
This approach built a team of supporters who shared a common goal. Though his reluctance to dictate meant he was sometimes slow to replace underperforming generals, he still maintained their respect.
Lead by Being Led
Lincoln's third principle was to lead by listening. He carefully considered the perspectives of every stakeholder and asked probing questions to cut through peripheral matters and identify the core issue. A key skill for any leader is knowing the right questions to ask and how to evaluate the quality of the answers.
By relying on the expertise of others, he not only elicited the best answers from his team but also made them feel deeply committed to the outcome.
Encourage Innovation
This led to his fourth rule: encourage innovation. Lincoln assembled a cabinet of his political adversaries and skeptics, winning them over by graciously valuing and accepting their help. He knew that to not listen to his advisors was to waste their talents.
When team members have a hand in the conception of a strategy, they feel more committed to its success.
Couch Issues in Wisdom
As a great storyteller, Lincoln used anecdotes and homespun humor to make his points in a non-threatening way. He understood that if people were smiling, it was much harder for them to disagree. He famously said, "You catch a lot more flies with a spoonful of honey than with a gallon of gall."
Relax and Regain Perspective
Finally, Lincoln recognized that mental exhaustion is the greatest enemy of good decision-making. He made it a point to frequently attend plays, concerts, and musicals to relax and restore his perspective. This was not about diminishing the gravity of the situation but about feeding his inner well-being to lead more effectively.
These lessons in leadership, drawn from a pivotal time in history, offer a valuable framework for leaders in business, industry, and finance today.