Empowering Leadership: Insights on Trust and Adaptability from Uwem Upkong’s Visit to Malaysia

During a recent visit to Malaysia in the week of 28th October 2024, we had the privilege of hearing from Amazon Web Services’ Vice President of Global Services, Uwem Upkong. His insights during this session were impactful, with two key themes standing out: the importance of the Say-Do Ratio and the ability to Ability to Switch and Navigate Amazon’s Leadership Principles Based on the Situational Needs. Uwem's unique perspective and experience brought these principles to life, reinforcing Amazon’s leadership philosophy in a way that felt both practical and profound.

The Say-Do Ratio: Building Trust and Credibility

A central theme Uwem emphasized was the Say-Do Ratio—a simple yet powerful concept that highlights the importance of doing what you say. In a fast-paced environment, trust is critical, and the Say-Do Ratio serves as a clear measure of that trust. When leaders follow through on their commitments, they earn credibility and set a strong example for their teams.

Uwem’s explanation of the Say-Do Ratio went beyond simply “keeping your word.” He highlighted the importance of consistent accountability, suggesting that the true mark of a leader isn’t just in making bold promises but in reliably delivering on them. Every time a leader commits to an action and follows through, it solidifies their integrity and boosts team morale. This principle is not just for managers or executives—it applies to everyone, from front-line employees to senior leadership.

The Say-Do Ratio also embodies Amazon’s Leadership Principle of Earn Trust, reminding us that leadership is an ongoing responsibility to set and meet expectations. Uwem encouraged us to reflect on our own Say-Do Ratios, asking if we’re consistently upholding our commitments. When we fall short, he reminded us of the importance of open communication, admitting shortcomings, and working to regain trust. This commitment to growth and continuous improvement is a key aspect of building a resilient and trustworthy culture.

Navigating Amazon’s Leadership Principles Based on the Situation

Another profound insight Uwem shared was the importance of adaptability and situational awareness in leadership, specifically regarding Amazon’s Leadership Principles. These principles serve as guiding values, defining how we approach challenges, make decisions, and interact with each other. However, as Uwem pointed out, effective leaders must be able to switch between these principles, leveraging them as the situation demands.

For instance, in one scenario, a leader might need to Dive Deep, scrutinizing the details to ensure alignment with AWS’s high standards. In another situation, they may need to embody Bias for Action, making quick decisions amid ambiguity. Uwem emphasized that effective leaders can recognize which principles to emphasize at any moment, allowing them to remain grounded in Amazon’s values while adapting to real-world complexities.

This adaptability requires self-awareness and emotional intelligence. Leaders must know their strengths and be willing to step out of their comfort zones, embracing different principles as the situation demands. For instance, a naturally detail-oriented leader might need to adopt Think Big when driving a transformative project, inspiring their team toward ambitious goals. Conversely, a visionary leader might need to Dive Deep to fully understand a problem’s nuances.

This flexibility also fosters collaboration and inclusivity, as leaders who can adapt Amazon’s principles are better equipped to understand diverse perspectives and bring teams together. Uwem’s insight was a reminder that the principles are not static guidelines—they are dynamic tools that, when used effectively, can help achieve extraordinary results.

Conclusion

Uwem Upkong’s recent session was an invaluable experience, shedding light on foundational leadership qualities that go beyond conventional advice. His emphasis on the Say-Do Ratio served as a reminder of the power of consistency and trustworthiness in leadership, while his guidance on navigating Amazon’s Leadership Principles underscored the importance of adaptability and situational awareness.

These insights remind us that leadership is not only about achieving results but also about how we achieve them. Through integrity and flexibility, we can each contribute to a culture that embodies Amazon’s values, ensuring AWS remains a place where innovation, trust, and collaboration thrive.