The cost of arrogance

If you live in Canada, you are aware that we just completed a federal election. Canadian politics in general including the election campaign provide vast amounts of leadership subject matter. The most illuminating is the reason for this election in the first place.

One man’s dream

The recent Canadian federal election was in reality, about one man’s dream. This man “an elegant and fine minded individual,” as described by a member of his party, believed that he was destined to be the leader of this great country. This election was about the perceived entitlement of Michael Ignatieff, the leader of the Liberal party of Canada who said "let us dare to dream but let us also dare to act," and history now shows us the he did both.

Perhaps it was his 34-year absence from this country, writing and teaching – indoctrinating – other fine young minds in prestigious colleges, which created this impression within that he should be our leader. Regardless of reason, the fact is that despite all evidence to the contrary, Ignatieff thought “he” could win and triggered an election. This decision caused decimation in the Liberal party popular vote and seat count in parliament, with numerous long term MPs losing their seats including Ignatieff himself.

Humility is foundational to effective leadership, and as perfectly demonstrated in Canadian politics, arrogance usually results in the incapability to face the brutal facts. We see the problem with the conceited, proud, egotistical leader far too often, and other than “don’t make them a leader,” I am not sure how to correct.

For the self-important, high and mighty individual – the cure, the fix - is failure. You only had to watch Michael Ignatieff walk up to the podium to announce his retirement from politics to return to teaching to realize that his pride level has experienced a major correction.

Final thought: While I am not happy with the $300 million Michael’s dream cost Canadian taxpayers – I am happy with the final outcome. This time it was worth the expense.

If you disagree with any of this – you might be a liberal.

The cost of arrogance

There is no one capable

I must say that I am frustrated when I hear the phrase "there is no one capable," referring to succession – moving into a management role. Actually, it is not frustration – I'm angry. When someone says this, what they mean is: no one is smart enough, capable enough or good enough to do what they do." That is simply arrogance gone to seed! Far too many people put themselves up on a pedestal when given a title.

So I ask, "What I hear you saying is that among the many members on your team, not one of these people are capable of moving into a management position?" "What about this person (name)?"

"They don't want it," is the reply.

Hmmm, the manager works constantly, rarely takes time off, does not freely share information and continually complains showing frustration about their job and their role. I think I understand; if this [preceding sentence] is what a manager has to do, why would anyone, in his or her right mind, want to do that?

Everyone and anyone is capable of becoming a great leader. The only exception would be due to a mental illness (extremely small portion of the population).

Good leaders always develop talent- often unintentionally.

There is no one capable

Just say “Thank you”

Many years ago while I was progressing up the corporate ladder - when I was much younger, cocky and thought I knew everything - I was taught a very important lesson.

I had received a compliment on some work that I had done from a senior level executive in the company. To this day I am not exactly sure what I said in response (have done my best to block this from memory), but it was somewhere along the lines of "yeah I know and let me show you all the fine details." While I did not realize it at the time (obviously because I was too focused on myself), my boss (mentor) who was also present during the conversation, was looking on with disgust at my display of arrogance. This mentor (my boss) was, is and will always be a great mentor to all those that he is in relationship with. He is an all around great guy (actually, his name is Guy). I imagine in that moment he must have been saying to himself "Argh, all that work and polishing – tarnished in a few seconds."

Despite this newfound revelation about his protégé, that - he could dress me up, but couldn't take me out, he was very gracious. Afterwards, with concern showing on his face (this look was to break through my haughtiness), he said, "In the future, when someone gives you a compliment – just say 'thank you'". It was a great lesson in humility, which I have never forgotten.

In my view, there are three possible responses to a compliment – and believe me - I have done all three (not necessarily all the comments, but the attitude):

1. Arrogance: "Yeah I know." "It's about time you recognized my talent and abilities." "Let me show you what else I can do." "Ok, so what promotion / reward do you have for me?" "Just show me the money." Can you add to the list …?
   
2. False Humility: "You're to kind, but I know that it could be better." "Ahh shucks, I just got lucky – my work is not usually this good." "I didn't do anything – it was everyone else." "I appreciate your comments – but I know that I can do better." How about this list, anything to add …?
   
3. "Thank you!"
   

Just say “Thank you”