Meet the go-getter letter Harry, who leads from the front when there is trouble in the project, escalation or any issues with other teams and stakeholders. However, when a colleague faced a personal storm, grappling with a family issue, Harry hesitated, unsure of how to proceed. While coworkers offered a helping hand, Harry stood back, contemplating his role. What would you have done if you were Harry?
Question: In the corporate world, is a leader’s responsibility limited to handling work-related matters, or should they also actively support their team members through personal struggles?
When leaders show that we care about you more than just the work you do-
In a harrowing moment on the football field in June 2021, Christian Eriksen, Denmark football player, suddenly collapsed during a match, sending shockwaves through the stadium. Amidst the tension, Simon Kjær, Denmark’s captain, swiftly stepped into action, showcasing extraordinary leadership:
- As Eriksen fell, Kjær rushed to his side, calling for medical help and ensuring a swift response from the medical team.
- Kjær showed quick thinking by organizing his teammates to form a protective circle around Eriksen, providing both privacy and emotional support.
- With a reassuring presence, Kjær consoled distressed players, maintaining a calm atmosphere and demonstrating unwavering support.
- Kjær’s sportsmanship extended beyond his team, as he approached opposing players, ensuring they understood the gravity of the situation and maintaining mutual respect.
Throughout the crisis, Kjær’s steadfast leadership shone brightly, reminding everyone that true leadership transcends the game, embodying compassion, unity, and strength.
In this pivotal moment, Simon Kjær exemplified the qualities of a true leader, extending support and compassion beyond the realm of sports. While the sports context is different from the corporate world, these leadership qualities and lessons can be adapted and applied to various leadership situations. Corporate leaders can draw inspiration from Simon Kjær’s actions to enhance their own leadership skills and effectively navigate challenging circumstances.
Lessons corporate leaders can learn from Simon Kjær, that will add that human touch to your team and organization in times of crisis.
- Prioritizing the Human Element:Recognize the central importance of people’s well-being, safety, emotions, and needs.In corporate decision-making, place the human element at the forefront.Demonstrate empathy and genuine concern for the individuals affected by a crisis.
- Embracing Accountability:Step into a leadership role, taking ownership of guiding the team through challenges.Address issues promptly, find solutions, and hold oneself accountable for outcomes.Lead by example, displaying a commitment to responsibility and taking the lead in difficult situations.
- Effective Communication:Communicate transparently and promptly during crises.Provide clear updates, instructions, and reassurance to teams, employees, and stakeholders.Foster an environment of open communication where concerns and information can flow freely.
- Decisive Action:Cultivate the ability to make swift decisions based on available information.Display agility in responding to challenges and adapting strategies as needed.Prioritize action over indecision, ensuring the organization is well-prepared for crisis scenarios.
- Fostering Team Unity:Promote a strong sense of teamwork and collaboration among employees.Encourage collective efforts and shared goals, emphasizing the power of working together.Rally the team during challenging times, maintaining cohesion and unity even in adversity.
As you navigate the intricate melody of leadership, remember the resonant notes of Kjær’s actions. Prioritize your team’s well-being, resonate with open communication, and step forward with empathy when the call for leadership emerges. By embracing these harmonious principles, you can orchestrate a symphony of success that resonates far beyond the confines of the corporate stage.
