Run, Grow, Transform

What leadership skills do you possess? Over the past several years, businesses have had to take a hard look in the mirror to determine who they are and where they are headed. Large companies with multiple lines of business will surely have diverse businesses in different stages of development. In a recent conversation with a client, we were discussing the skills it takes for a leader to grow, run, or transform a business. While I believe, it is possible to be a triple threat, a term alluding to a person who is adept in three fields/skills, I’ve witnessed many a leader build their career with a singular focus.

Look at your skills. Do you have the ability and vision to embrace ambiguity, disrupt and work through change? Transformers thrive in this environment. Do you get energy from ensuring that the day-to-day operations run smoothly and efficiently? On the other hand, do you embrace the challenge of taking your business to the next level, growing your opportunities?

When I look at the world of sports, some coaches are challenged and skillful around rebuilding teams. Take Larry Brown, current coach of the Charlotte Bobcats professional basketball team, as one example. Recently he rebuilt a Detroit franchise into a champion, failed in an attempt to rebuild a New York team and is now successfully turning around his Bobcats. These leaders thrive on transforming and usually move to a different opportunity when they have reached their goal. Los Angeles Lakers coach Phil Jackson’s skills are in maintaining a high performing organization. While both these situations take different leadership skills, each leader is extremely valuable to their organization during that business cycle.

What do you want to be known for? Take stock of your experiences and capabilities. Determine what brings you joy and energy. Showcase your talent.