![[5-min leadership] Indispensable Leadership](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5c58873fa9ab95190efd52a9/1637683957916-CTLK5ODC1DTC2A1VOGKA/unsplash-image-VJHb4QPBgV4.jpg)
Do you suffer from "indispensable leader" syndrome?
Or, maybe someone in your organization has it?
It is common, pervasive, and highly contagious.
If not diagnosed and cured quickly, it can ruin even the most successful organizations.
Not to worry! Dr. D6 is here with the prescription!
Effective organizations must be resilient, which scientists describe as “the capacity of a system to absorb disturbance and still retain its basic function and structure.”
As a result, effective leaders and boards must ensure that clear succession plans exist AND that everyone is aware of them, in case the leader is unavailable at a moment of crisis or suddenly departs.
If you haven't heard of The Great Resignation yet, we suggest a Google search! (Hint, hint 😉)
In addition, steps should be taken to develop those within the organization who may be called upon at a time of crisis to move up to higher positions of responsibility, as well as being potential “homegrown” leaders for the future.
Far too many organizations suffer from the “indispensable leader” syndrome.
This is when the “success” of a leader is solely measured in how well his or her organization functioned while they were in charge.
But their most important leadership contribution may be how well they prepared their organization for their inevitable departure.
Did they retain and develop highly qualified leaders who could assume greater responsibilities even during moments of crisis or change?
Or were they so consumed by short-term success that they left the organization unprepared?
Jack Welch is held in high esteem by many management theorists for his leadership of General Electric for more than 20 years. But, GE clearly suffered in the transition to new leadership upon his departure.
In comparison, many argued that Apple’s Steve Jobs was “too good to replace,” but in 2011 Jobs selected Tim Cook as his successor. Since then Cook has led Apple to even greater heights.
During times of rapid change (hello 2020 and 2021!) organizations need consistency.
Plus, leaders who have a deep understanding of the organization's unique culture, brand, and how to inspire their team.
Are you suffering from indispensable leader syndrome?
Do you need a succession plan?
Are you building a homegrown team?
Giving this some careful consideration will help keep your organization on sure footing during these rapidly changing times.