A car accident that I had recently, gave me the opportunity to observe how some parents model behaviour for their children. At the same time, it gave me better insight into the genuine concern and caring of people and how that may translate into business leadership. This accident gave me the opportunity to observe how a business leader in Canada, presents one public image, while in his private time, shows a lack of empathy and disregard for others. This leader has sold billions products and services to Canadian businesses and consumers. He is from one of the top managed companies in Canada,.
The Accident
I learned how a young man, who was coached by his father, behaved after this accident. I observed how this leader mentors others, how his moral compass and behaviour does not align with the public profile that he seeks to present. Through his son’s actions, This father and leader modeled inappropriate behaviour, lack of honesty or concern for others.
On June 5, 2017, I was in my car with my mother at a red light. It was 10:00pm and I waiting patiently, behind another car. Soon the light turned green. Without any reason the car ahead of me, backed up towards my car with my mother and I inside, rather than go forward as you should when a traffic light changes to green.
How it Relates to Business Leadership
Obviously, this small accident was not a pleasant experience. It could have been resolved quickly and amicably. However, the accident gave me the opportunity to observe the business leader’s behaviour. The emails that his son sent showed a disregard for others.
Leaders need to model good behaviour and actions. This is important for their children and their teams, whether it’s during business hours or during their private time. Failure to show concern for others during their private time, demonstrates a real lack of leadership skills. Leadership is not only carried out Monday to Friday, during company hours. Good leadership qualities can and should be modeled by leaders tin their private time, and not just during business hours.
To learn more about the behaviour that a leader models, contact me for a consultation.