Joseph Edgar is the CEO of SnapAds, which helps local businesses find, keep and reward customers.
A successful business is not just a product of a brilliant idea; it’s the result of a well-coordinated team effort. By leveraging the collective intelligence, skills and passion of a dedicated team, founders can overcome obstacles, drive innovation and achieve sustainable growth. As evidenced by recent events at OpenAI, a loyal and committed team can make all the difference in the future of your company.
Teams Make Things Happen
History often credits great leaders, but the truth is that teams are the true engines of success. From Julius Caesar’s legions to Alexander the Great’s phalanxes, the power of a united group has always been paramount.
To replicate such successful team dynamics, we can look to the traits outlined in Barry Strauss’ book Masters of Command that distinguished these historical leaders:
1. Effective communication: Listen to your team to understand their perspectives.
2. Leading by example: Work alongside your team and inspire through shared experience.
3. Adaptability: Foster a team culture that embraces change and innovation.
4. Risk-taking: Encourage a sense of ownership, recognizing that your team’s time and energy are valuable investments.
The book explains that Alexander the Great exemplified these traits by holding open audiences with his soldiers, demonstrating his commitment to open communication. Creating a culture of open and honest feedback is crucial for growth and improvement. Encourage constructive criticism and provide a safe space for team members to express their opinions, even when they differ.
Listening is the only way to know if the overall vision is fully understood. To implement this approach, try limiting how much you speak in meetings. Instead, take notes and listen to what the other team members say.
Strauss says that Hannibal, too, led by example; he ate, slept and fought alongside his soldiers, sharing the hardships and triumphs. This type of leadership can build loyalty and foster a sense of shared purpose. Avoid the pitfalls of becoming a leader who seems entitled or disconnected from the daily challenges of their teams.
Soon after college, I did an internship with the state government doing data entry. When a capable team member dumps something on you, it leaves you feeling undervalued. Leaders who present themselves as too entitled or privileged to do mundane tasks or sales calls or even clean up after themselves can leave the team demotivated.
It’s important to bring up even the lowest-ranking team members, something Strauss says Julius Caesar understood. When everyone experiences the same obstacles, I’ve found that they develop a deeper understanding of the business and its challenges.
To implement some of these traits on your team, start by doing the most dreaded job in the company at least once a month. If all team members do this, it can create a sense of appreciation for other teammates’ roles in the company.
When The Team Leads
From my perspective, the recent show of solidarity by OpenAI employees underscores the power of strong team dynamics. This collective action highlights the importance of trust, loyalty and shared purpose within an organization. While traditional employee actions often focus on workplace conditions, this instance demonstrates a unique level of commitment to leadership.
As a leader, I’ve sought to foster similar team dynamics. One strategy I’ve employed is holding regular one-on-one meetings with each team member. During these meetings, we discuss both professional and personal goals. By taking a genuine interest in their aspirations, I aim to build trust and strengthen our working relationships. For example, I’ve helped team members set goals like quitting smoking, buying a car for a loved one or improving their health.
A team is composed of individuals. If a team is committed to a shared goal and vision, the leader should reciprocate by listening to the personal and professional goals of its members. This might involve offering opportunities for advancement, salary increases or travel experiences. You can also arrange dinner events where you meet team members’ families. By understanding what motivates and fulfills each team member, we can foster a supportive environment that encourages risk-taking and commitment to the overall vision.
The Perils Of Self-Interest
While many aspire to leadership, it’s crucial to remember the inherent responsibility of this role. Unfortunately, personal ambitions like prestige, promotions or financial gain can sometimes overshadow the greater good a team effort can accomplish. These temptations can lead us to believe that we can achieve more on our own—and can reveal a person’s true motives to their teams.
Aligning personal interests and team well-being is a type of magic that can lead to victory. Building a supportive and collaborative culture, where growth and development are encouraged, is essential for long-term success. Empower your team members by delegating authority, providing opportunities for growth and recognizing their contributions; I’ve found that these steps help keep such negative temptations out of the team.
History is rife with examples of leaders betrayed by their closest confidants. Even Julius Caesar fell victim to betrayal by his friend Brutus. However, it’s important to note that Caesar’s success was also rooted in his team, and teams thrive on trust. A leader cannot lead effectively without trust, and the team plays a crucial role in protecting and supporting their leader.
I’ve witnessed this firsthand with my own children. When my daughter took responsibility for a glass her younger cousin broke, it warmed my heart. We all knew the truth, but she shielded her cousin from potential blame, demonstrating a remarkable level of empathy and support.
The OpenAI team serves as a model of unity and trust for me. While a few may rise to historical leadership, most of us are part of teams. Whether in business, community groups or social clubs, understanding and embracing our roles within a team is key to success and fulfillment. By effectively communicating, adapting, and leading by example, we can empower our leaders and fellow teammates to achieve and overcome extraordinary risks together.
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