It is all about Leading from behind

1 Charting the Course: Leadership in the Hybrid Work Era

The landscape of work has been radically transformed in recent years, with hybrid environments becoming the new norm. Yet, the fundamental principle of cultivating a winning team through exceptional leadership endures. To build a resilient, innovative team in this new era, leaders must embrace the art of leading from behind, allowing the latent capabilities and intelligence of their team members to flourish. In this article, I share my leadership approach as the VP and Managing Director of HP Latin America, focusing on key principles such as trust, purpose, and open dialogue.

2 Cultivating a Democratic Team

A true testament to effective leadership is the moment when a team member finds the courage to voice disagreement. By nurturing a culture that welcomes discourse and deliberation, leaders can tap into the collective genius of their team. The key is to be clear in communicating decisions and confirming that the team understands and aligns with them. A unified team is a formidable force, capable of conquering any challenge. Leaders who seek to foster such a democratic environment must demonstrate a genuine openness to diverse perspectives. By actively soliciting input from every member, even those who may be reluctant to speak up, they create an atmosphere of inclusivity and mutual respect. As a result, the team will grow more confident in sharing ideas, ultimately leading to more robust and well-rounded solutions.

3 Don’t be Afraid to Ask: "How Can I Help?"

To lead from behind, leaders must prioritize keeping their team motivated, instilling a sense of purpose in their work, and offering avenues for growth and development. One powerful practice, supported by research on team motivation and success, is simply asking, "How can I help?" This question not only fosters ownership and self-reliance but also opens the door for team members to seek guidance or support when needed. Being genuinely committed to the growth and success of each individual can have a profound impact on the team's overall performance. At HP, I make it a priority to offer personalized support, acknowledge accomplishments, and identify areas for improvement. By doing so, leaders demonstrate their investment in the well-being and progress of their team members.

4 Embracing Wins and Losses with Equal Enthusiasm

When we achieve success, I give recognition to my team. It's not about me; it's about their accomplishments. Conversely, when things don't go as planned, I take responsibility. This approach creates a safe environment for innovation and failure because team members know that their leader has their back. We learn together and grow stronger as a result. A culture that embraces both wins and losses as opportunities for growth can foster resilience and adaptability. By celebrating small victories and learning from setbacks, leaders encourage a mindset of continuous improvement, paving the way for the team's long-term success.

5 Nurturing Trust and Extreme Ownership

To truly lead from behind, leaders must cultivate a culture of trust and extreme ownership. By entrusting team members with responsibilities and granting them the autonomy to make decisions, leaders demonstrate their confidence in their team's abilities. This empowerment can lead to increased motivation, engagement, and a willingness to take on challenges. Moreover, extreme ownership instills a sense of accountability and commitment to the team's collective goals. When team members feel a strong sense of ownership, they are more likely to be proactive and solution-oriented, striving for excellence in all they do.

?6 The Road Ahead: Embracing a New Leadership Paradigm

To assemble a triumphant team in the hybrid work era, leaders must adopt a "leading from behind" approach, characterized by granting autonomy and fostering extreme ownership. At its essence, leading from behind is an act of service, focused on creating a culture that unlocks the hidden potential of each individual. By empowering your team through trust, purpose, and open dialogue, you pave the way for a team that’s capable of achieving unparalleled results. Remember, the ultimate goal is not to be the smartest person in the room but to create an environment where every member can become a genius in their own right.