Three Leadership Lessons From The 2016 US Presidential Race

On of 27th of September over 84 million people in the US were keenly tuned in to witness a 90-minute debate between Hilary Clinton and Donald Trump. This, the first debate in a series of three was part of a long and drawn out campaign as the two hopeful nominees contest the highest profile leadership role on the planet – President of the United States of America. While some would argue that neither contender is the ideal candidate required to shepherd the US into greener pastures, there are certainly some valuable lessons that all leaders can take away from the spectacle that is the 2016 US presidential race.

To Lead Is To Be Judged

They don’t call it political mudslinging for nothing – Both candidates have had to withstand scandal, claim, and counter claim (whether based on fact or fantasy) all designed to undermine their credibility. Despite this (at least outwardly), both candidates exhibit unwavering self-confidence. While most leaders will not come under this extreme level of scrutiny all leaders must understand that they are being judged by what they do and say on a daily basis. It is important to depersonalize and let go of criticism and focus on the bigger picture in order to maintain motivation.

The Undecided Vote Matters

In both the Clinton and Trump camps there are fanatical supporters, in whose eyes their candidate can do no wrong. For these supporters the campaign is irrelevant, they have already decided who they will throw their support behind and nothing will persuade them otherwise. No words or deeds could convince them that the other candidate is more worthy than their chosen champion. No, the campaign is not for the rusted on diehards, the campaign is for those in the middle – the undecided. In campaigning, this is where the energy (and money) is used. Candidates crisscross the country to connect with the undecided voters.

As a leader you are likely to have core supporters who will believe in you throughout both ups and downs. Equally likely you may find that there are those around you who despite your best efforts will never accept you as their leader. Then there are those in the middle. Just as in the presidential race, creating opportunities to connect with, listen to and learn from those in the middle by walking the floor is key to winning their support.

No One Leads Alone

When America decides on November 8th they will be voting for an individual. However, behind that individual is a well-oiled machine containing scores of staffers, advisors, and strategists. In crossing the finish line both candidates will have relied heavily on the support of those around them – from being told what to wear by their stylists to what to say by their speech writers. This is a beautiful demonstrate of the paradox of power – to become powerful as a leader you need to demonstrate trust and give up power to those around you. Let your team focus on what they do best so that you can give all of your energy to what you do best.

Bringing It All Together

While we all can’t become the next President of the United States, we all can become better leaders. Observing the race highlights some useful questions that can take us one step closer:

• As a leader how do I best let go of / depersonalize non-constructive criticism so as to not become demotivated?
• As a leader who are my key supporters, opponents, and “the undecided”? / How am I creating opportunities to connect with “the undecided vote”?
• As a leader am I showing trust in those around me by delegating effectively?

HR Business Direction can assist you to build on your leadership strengths to become a better leader.

Alistair Kerr MPsychOrg; PostGradDip Psych; BPsych
Organisational Development Strategist | Psychologist
alistair.kerr@hrbd.com.au
07 3890 2066
www.hrbd.com.au