The Shackleton Way

Shackleton resonates with executives in today’s business world. His people-centered approach to leadership can be a guide for anyone in a position of authority. Some of today’s leaders are successfully applying Shackleton’s methods to their own work situations.

Stages of the ship “Endurance” Journey

• The Path to Leadership
• Developing Leadership Skills
• Hiring an outstanding crew

Shackleton resonates with executives in today’s business world. His people-centered approach to leadership can be a guide for anyone in a position of authority. Being a leader means developing yourself. You need to be strong and resourceful in order to make the journey, as the destination is never actually reached. As you become a leader, you find resources in yourself you did not know you had. You work your way into the forefront of a new field. You become more yourself, because a leader’s influence comes from who you are, what you do, and the examples you set.

• Creating a Spirit of camaraderie
• Getting the best from each individual
• Leading effectively in a crisis / crisis management

A leader inspires others, many diverse groups, in order to lead effectively in good and bad times. Building espirt de corps and leading by example in order to get the most from each individual and developing them at the same time. Leadership also develops oneself in areas of communication, understanding others, appreciating differences and gaining from them, developing rapport with your people and influencing others. Sir Ernest Shackleton led by example and used informal one-on -one talks to build a bond with his man. He inspired optimism, and at same time worked to keep spirits high in the team, especially in times of crisis.

• Forming team for tough assignments
• Overcoming obstacles to reach a goal
• Leaving a legacy

Shackleton balanced talent and expertise in each team. He ensured all the groups were keeping pace. He was visible and vigilant. He kept sight of the big picture, and leaders need to look towards the destinations as well as paying attention to where they have been and where they are, to ensure all the group are keeping pace. He got the teams to help each other and built up the weakest links. Leaders must understand the system they are part of, to see beyond the obvious, the immediate situation and then sense how events connect to deeper patterns. Ultimately your leadership should have a lifelong impact of the people you work with.