I love TED.
Sorry, but this isn’t an article, but a video of a presentation that’s 12 minutes long. At least it’s not a 3 hour Makadok video… My boss sent this to me and I’m passing it on.
The video talks about the origins of cooperation based on the first paleolithic reactions to danger. In all, it talks about cooperation in any collective, be it a tribe railing against hunger and predators, or someone in a business that’s competing against others in an industry.
In either case, in-fighting and mistrust within the company damages our ability to work together and effectively against a common external danger.
There’s a company, NextJump that has a lifetime employment policy where no one can be fired, but if there are issues, will be coached. I must admit that I kind of laughed at that concept.
I didn’t laugh about the Barry Weymiller 2008 furlough decision, however. If you watch one thing in this video, skip to 8:30.
Thanks for sharing. I really liked the point that he made about leaders vs. authorities. No matter the situation, external environment, etc. when employees see that you have their best interests in mind, it is remarkable how much they are willing to follow and support you. A few common themes I hear quite often to improve your relations with your employees as a leader are: listen to your employee’s concerns (and have them feel heard), give them the opportunity of choice, and provide them with a clear direction for the future.
Great post Matt, really enjoyed the video. Completely believe the statement that Simon makes about leaders being everywhere in a company. The fact that even the people at the top of an organization are not necessarily leaders, but authorities. Trust is definitely a telling trait of a leader.