Keeping in mind today’s communication shifts, expanding generation gaps, acceleration of technology and the inevitable surge of mobile global workers, what would you say is the #1 skill a leader must embody to become a successful next generation leader?
In August 2011, I experienced a “dream come true” moment when I spent time with my hero, John C. Maxwell (the world’s leadership expert and author of over 60 books), at his home in Florida. I met his staff, toured his office, and sat in John’s well-known thinking chair, hoping to absorb some of his wisdom… but I’d say that didn’t happen. During my visit, I asked John, “What traits will define successful leaders of the next generation?” He replied, “Creativity and tenacity.”
Wow. The more I think about John’s answer, the more I believe it’s true. If I can be bold and take John’s answer a step further, I’d say the top leadership skill that drives creativity and determination is Agility. I believe this skill will shape the next generation of great leaders. Being flexible isn’t enough in today’s unpredictable market. Leaders must be flexible AND act fast.
According to Dictionary.com, “Flexible” is to be capable or susceptible of modification or adaptation. On the other hand, “Agility” is the power to move quickly and easily; the ability to think and draw conclusions quickly; intellectual sharpness. Being flexible only provides the capacity to adapt where agility involves the action of moving to adapt and positioning to execute. Moving is the key. Stagnant leadership will leave a team motionless which is crippling in a high motion market.
Agility unlocks the leadership traits needed to thrive tomorrow.
- Agility in thinking leads to creativity.
Next generation leaders can gain agility in their thinking by asking questions, fostering constant curiosity, relentless reading, embracing the unknown, and feasting on the “what ifs” of the world. The more nimble your thinking becomes, the faster you can combat the never-before-seen obstacles of tomorrow with creativity.
- Agility in skills leads to tenacity.
Next generation leaders can gain agility in their skills by embracing technology, upgrading outdated skills, remaining open to new skills, studying emerging trends, forming teams that offset weaknesses, becoming a student of change, getting uncomfortable and doing. Leaders equipped with nimble next generation skills are more able to stay relevant and attack new markets with great tenacity.
Just as athletes achieve physical agility through rigid daily routines and an internal commitment, so must next generation leaders achieve the same agility in their leadership. As generations, social media, and technology usher in a new era of leadership, agility will prove to be your next generation catalyst to keep you creative and tenacious as a leader.
Stay open, get agile and lead on.
Question: How will you be (and stay) agile in your leadership?