[font=verdana, 'Bitstream Charter', serif]The approach of Father’s Day has me thinking about the parallels between being a dad and being a leader in business. I have five wonderful kids, and the process of raising them has taught me many lessons in humility. From the first sleepless night with a newborn, I learned very quickly that I don’t have all the answers, and that the journey of parenthood has a great deal to do with letting go.[/font]
[font=verdana, 'Bitstream Charter', serif]The same is true about being a boss. When an employee ‘leaves the nest,’ it can be difficult to put aside what I want in favor of what might be best for that individual, or for the company. What’s good for growth, whether it’s an individual needing to pursue new horizons or a company needing to move in different directions, is not always easy on the ego.[/font]
[font=verdana, 'Bitstream Charter', serif]But great leadership isn’t about ego. As Jim Collins writes in Good to Great, the most effective leader (what he terms a Level 5 leader)[/font]
[font=verdana, 'Bitstream Charter', serif]“Looks out the window, not in the mirror, to apportion credit for the success of the company–to other people, external factors, and good luck.” A Level 5 leader knows it’s not all about him. Although it’s only human to take things personally, as a father and a CEO I strive to put principles before personal needs. The principle of growth and the pursuit of excellence may sometimes fit my agenda, or it could mean things move in a different direction–one that doesn’t match my plan.[/font]
[font=verdana, 'Bitstream Charter', serif]As much as I love having my kids near me, I’ve told my two oldest that this should be their last summer working for me. Both of them intend to work in different fields, and it’s important that they start to get experience in those arenas. Even if they wanted to stay in my industry, I would encourage them to get outside experience so that they can bring new ideas to the company if they eventually return.[/font]
[font=verdana, 'Bitstream Charter', serif]It’s tough to let them go. But companies, like people, must continue to grow and adapt if they intend to thrive. Seeing that I’m just a part of a much bigger process is the kind of humility that I strive to have as a CEO and as a father.[/font]
