Going beyond Leadership Theory: Establishing Leadership Routines

Heavy industries like mining, metals, oil, and gas are tough places to work. Success in transforming these operations depends on more than just the latest technology or even a complex business strategy. A lot of it comes down to leadership — the daily actions and decisions of those in charge. This article explores how the right leadership habits can completely change the way these industries operate, offering insights for leaders looking to transform their operations.

The Foundation of Change: Effective Leadership Routines

Leadership routines are the secret weapon for changing operations in heavy industries. These aren't random tasks one does when they have the time or energy, but deliberate actions leaders take every day and week to improve their teams and work. These actions include setting a good example, making clear what you expect from your team, engaging with and motivating employees, offering regular feedback, and working together to solve problems.

One key routine is leading by example, especially when it comes to safety and operational excellence. Leaders who show their commitment to these areas inspire their teams to follow suit, creating a culture of responsibility and safety.

Setting High Standards: Expectation and Accountability

Leaders in heavy industries know the importance of clear standards. They start by fully understanding their company's goals, especially in safety, health, and the environment (SHE). Making these goals and how the company is performing against them visible and clear to everyone is crucial. It shows how seriously the company takes these issues.

Such leaders also make sure their teams are held accountable for meeting these standards. This means not just identifying problems but making sure they are solved quickly and effectively.

Engaging with the Team: More Than Just Meetings

Great leadership means getting out of the office and engaging with the team on the ground. This might be through meetings before the shift starts, sharing safety tips, or walking around the work areas. This hands-on approach gives leaders a direct view of the challenges their teams face and how to address them.

For example, starting meetings with a safety tip makes safety a part of everyday conversation, making it more likely that employees will take it seriously.

Observing and Acting: The Leader’s Eye

One of the most powerful things a leader can do is to walk around the work areas and observe. This isn't just about watching; it's about engaging with employees, reinforcing good practices, and addressing any unsafe behaviour immediately.

When leaders have these conversations, it shows they care about their team's safety and well-being. It's about making safety a personal priority for everyone.

Recognising Good Work: Celebrating Achievements

Acknowledging good safety practices and achievements is a key part of leadership routines. Whether it’s a personal thank you, celebrating milestones, or recognising teams and individuals, showing appreciation builds a positive culture. It motivates everyone to maintain high safety standards and work efficiently.

Continuous Improvement and Innovation

In operations where mistakes can have serious consequences, striving for continuous improvement and innovation is essential. Leaders should encourage their teams to come up with new solutions and improvements. Regular feedback, innovation meetings, and an open culture that welcomes constructive criticism will help drive operations forward.

The Ripple Effect of Leadership Routines

Adopting effective leadership routines does more than improve operations. It creates a culture of trust, safety, and respect. This leads to more engaged employees, lower turnover rates, and ultimately, better performance.

In summary, organisations should look at 'codifying' leadership routines, ensuring there's a consistent and 'cascaded' way that demonstrates how we work. It requires leaders to be proactive, engaged, and involved in their teams' day-to-day activities. Leadership routines are at the heart of any successful transformation, showing a commitment to excellence, safety, and efficiency. For leaders in heavy industries, adopting these routines will expedite result delivery, and will ensure results are sustained by fostering a continuous improvement culture, starting with one routine at a time.