The Most Effective Way to Get People to Follow You
Dwight D. Eisenhower is generally considered one of the better American presidents. Historical evaluations of his presidency place him among the upper tier of American presidents, but where he unequivocally ranks at the top of most lists, is his leadership and ability to rally his troops.
Without diving headfirst into the minutiae of Eisenhower's accomplishments, let me share a brief anecdote from his life that demonstrates a great leadership lesson for us all.
Whenever Eisenhower commanded new subordinates, he taught them a truth about working with people using a simple piece of string. He'd place the string on the table in front of his subordinate and say this legendary quote:
"Pull it and it'll follow wherever you wish. Push it and it will go nowhere at all." - Dwight D. Eisenhower
Eisenhower knew that you can draw people into collaboration, but you can't push them.
As a quarterback, it's not efficient or effective to tell your wide receivers, "do it right!" It is efficient and effective to say, "let me show you how it's done."
As a team captain, it's harder to rally your teammates by using the word "you." It is easier to rally your teammates by using the word "we."
As a coach, it's weak and soft to tell your players, "figure it out." It is strong and powerful to tell your players, "let's figure this out."
This is not only good leadership, but it also creates good, strong followers.
Poor leaders don’t like strong followers. Poor leaders don't like having other leaders around.
Good leaders understand that iron sharpens iron. Good leaders understand that being surrounded by good people makes the job easier and better for everyone.
Be a good leader. Lead like a victor. Create strong followers. Create more leaders. Be that person.