What can a Masai warrior teach today's manager?
Plenty, according to the UK's Institute of Directors, which recently brought Masai warriors and a group of British managers together for a masterclass on how to survive in harsh environments.
One of the tips imparted by the visiting warriors was the importance of community, which they claim has the potential to ensure a tribe remains resilient during difficult times.
When asked what attributes best define Masai leadership one of the warriors cited patience, courage and the ability to ask questions as key factors, The Times reports.
The Masai's number one tip for Western business leaders is 'one head is not so wise'. Accordingly, they suggest managers shouldn't be too proud to seek advice even from the most junior of staff.
On the subject of community someone gave me a book called Think One Team that is sort of on that topic. It looks at the way big companies encourage departments to work within themselves instead of with other departments. It's told as a fable and it's really great look at how community and the creation of one community instead of lots of little ones can make all of the difference.
Posted by: Arley | 27 August 2008 at 03:40 PM