Leadership Lessons from 1943

Leadership is hard and it cannot rely on authority alone. That is true even in the armed services, even in wartime. Here are some excerpts from my late father’s ‘Officer’s Aide Memoire’, a booklet that he was given as he went through officer training in 1943, the middle of the Second World War. Although this is going back 80+ years I sense a strong affinity with many of the values which are represented in my book, Founder’s Legacy.

·???????? “Leadership is the one attribute which is common and necessary to all who wear the uniform of an officer in His Majesty’s Forces, whatever their technical qualifications”

In other words, founders, whatever ‘business’ you are in, leadership is “common and necessary”. There is no avoiding it, we need to embrace it and find our courage.

·???????? “Your demeanour should be cheerful and enthusiastic – it is your business to inspire enthusiasm and pride of ship and service”

Your decisions and day-to-day behaviour are actively shaping the culture, for better or for worse. You cast a long shadow. So, make it your business to demonstrate (our) values.

·???????? “Do not despise advice tendered to you by your subordinates”

Those in leadership positions must ensure a safe environment, one in which individuals can challenge poor decisions and practices without fear. And leaders should be interested in insight or advice that contributes to our mission, whatever its source.

·???????? “Never be afraid to ask questions. Bluff is a trait of the bad Officer”

As Ray Dalio says in his book Principles, “Smart people are the ones who ask the most thoughtful questions, as opposed to thinking they have all the answers. Great questions are a much better indicator of future success than great answers.”

·???????? “Men very quickly form a very shrewd opinion of your ability and your capacity for just dealing. It is on this assessment that their readiness to follow your lead and to work with a will under you, mostly depends”

Keep your promises to yourself and to your team. Show them that self-discipline and integrity matter. Developing the culture of your organisation requires consistent, reliable, high integrity behaviour over time.

·???????? “Ignorance may be the reason, and there are times when you could, and should, be kindly”

Remember that everyone you lead is someone else’s daughter or son. Help them to learn and grow into better people.