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Can a team be effective with shared leadership?
John Wayne’s skills, talent, intuition and knowledge have led his posse out of many a tangle on our televisions over the years. Many of us still subscribe to the John Wayne School of Leadership – one person leading the way to victory. Is that still the case in today’s world? Can a group or pair share leadership and still be successful? ―Control and command‖ works in some situations while ―shared leadership‖ may work in others. Households are a good example of shared leadership between the adults in the house. What are the advantages/disadvantages of this type of leadership structure?
If everyone is working toward the same vision is that enough to keep them on path? Can a team be effective when each member champions part of the goal? How does shared leadership impact those trying to follow the mission/vision? What can happen when too many people assume the lead? How do they keep the same direction and stay focused? Shared leadership doesn’t necessarily mean that everyone is the boss. It can mean taking turns and allowing different people at different times to take the lead and empowering others to lead themselves. What else is shared leadership about?
Imagine... an entire team made up of leaders.
Activity:
Try This – Two Groups, One Goal
Separate the room into two groups: A Control and Command Group and a Shared Leader Group. The mission is for each group to draw a picture of a tree. Everyone from both groups is to participate in the drawing except the leader in the Control and Command group.
When finished, gather together and share the process from each group with the other.
-- What worked well for you? What didn’t?
-- Did a leader emerge in the shared leadership group? Was there conflict/ harmony?
-- Did you feel your process was timely or delayed?
Reflection:
- Have you ever shared leadership responsibilities with another person?
- How did it work out?
- What were some of the successes/challenges?
- What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- Can you identify others who may help you where you are weak and benefit from your strengths?
“It is amazing how much people get done if they do not worry about who gets the credit.”
- Swahili proverb
“Teamwork is the ability to work together toward a common vision. The ability to direct individual accomplishments toward organizational objectives. It is the fuel that allows common people to attain uncommon results.”
- Andrew Carnegie
The Charmm’d Foundation would like to thank Deb Guy, Executive Director of Women’s Exchange – Winnetka for pondering with us this week!