I recently came across a story with Oriental origins that offered some insight into what makes for an excellent leader of an organisation. Before you click to another page saying ‘this doesn’t apply to me, then read on!
The CEO of a large international organisation was looking for an able and wise person who would take over the running of the business after he had retired. He earmarked the best managers from his own company and hired recruitment consultants and head-hunters to find him additional ones who might fulfil the required criteria.
On a particular day, all the possible contenders were assembled in the vault of the bank with which the organisation did business. The CEO addressed the assembly stating that he wished to set them a task to identify which among them had the necessary skills, acumen and wherewithal to play the role of guiding the company in the future. Indicating the huge vault door behind him, he invited the assembled individuals to open it, unassisted.
Some of the managers just shook their heads and withdrew. Others examined the door more closely, cited theories of problem-solving learned in business school, discussed aspects of leverage and mass but ultimately admitted that it was an impossible task.
However, one manager approached the door and gave it a thorough examination. He tapped it while listening carefully, assessed its dimensions and noted the hinges and their lubrication before applying his weight to the door. The door didn’t move. Once again he examined the door, its frame and the space around the door. There, trapped between the door and the floor, was a tiny piece of grit which was just enough to prevent the precision-made door from opening. Once removed, the door, despite its huge size and mass opened effortlessly.
The CEO had his successor.
Addressing those in the vault, the CEO said, “Success in industry depends on certain key things which you have just seen demonstrated! Firstly, rely on your senses to fully understand the reality of what is going on around you. Second, do not make false assumptions. Third, be willing to make tough decisions. Fourth, have the courage to act with boldness and conviction. Fifth, put your powers into action. Finally, do not be afraid to make mistakes.
If these are the keys to success as a captain of industry, then it begs the question as to how many people working with offenders also have the capacity to become CEO’s of an international organisation?
