It’s May the 4th, a much celebrated day for Star Wars fans throughout the universe. While having my morning tea, lightsaber in hand, it occurred to me Star Wars has an important contribution to make in the field of leadership.
On one side of the epic struggle is the Empire, featuring leaders that manage through fear and intimidation. Team members are afraid to voice their opinion or admit failure. Disengagement, burnout and high turnover are rife under this leadership style.
In contrast, the Rebel Alliance’s leaders strive to create an atmosphere of psychological safety and common purpose. Alternative views are solicited, failures accepted and learned from. Team members are celebrated for their contributions, not belittled or micromanaged. Esprit de corp and the resultant commitment to meeting common objectives is a key feature.
A classic contrast in leadership styles. And, despite the occasional setback, one always moves an organization further forward.