Finding Your Leadership Philosophy

One of the fun things about writing this blog is exploring the different leadership philosophies and approaches that people follow. In some sense, the ideas are the same. I think in every blog Liz and I have written, we have touched on the importance of good communication and developing trust with your team. Another common theme: Lead by example. We talk (preach) about this in our supervisor training, nurse preceptor course, and in other leadership programs.

I’ve been all in on the lead by example idea, so I tuned in when the keynote speaker at an event I attended this weekend made me rethink this and several other  long-standing leadership principles. First, a little bit about the event. I like all things sports related and am a big college basketball fan, especially Illinois and the Big 10. On Sunday, the Quincy University Hawk’s basketball program hosted its Tip Off banquet featuring legendary Michigan State Coach, Tom Izzo. Coach Izzo is a household name in college basketball and has led the MSU men’s program since 1995, having amassed an impressive 686 career game wins, 10 Big 10 Conference regular-season titles and the NCAA Division I national championship in 2000. I couldn’t miss going and loved his down-to-earth, blue collar style.  

One Coach's Approach

Given his remarkable success and longevity in a high-pressure role, it was fascinating to listen to his views on leadership. First, he touched on the perspective of leading by example. “It’s not enough to lead by example,” he said. “To lead by example means you do the job and IF people are watching you, they will follow, but IF they AREN’T watching you, they won’t follow you.”  Instead, he emphasized the importance of finding the right people and building the right team. “Leaders gather people and bring people in with them. That is the ultimate leader,” he said. Coach Izzo's approach aligns with the idea of visionary leadership. Effective leaders articulate a compelling vision that attracts like-minded individuals who share a passion and purpose.

Second, Coach Izzo stressed the importance of remembering players play the game. “As a coach, I’ll never shoot a free throw, make a pass, or slam dunk a ball. It’s the players who play the game.” Coaching isn’t doing, and this idea carries profound leadership lessons that extend far beyond the basketball court. What I loved about this simple statement was Coach Izzo's recognition that players are the ones who ultimately execute the plays and win the games. The idea highlights the importance of empowerment and ownership. In leadership, it's crucial to delegate tasks and responsibilities to team members, allowing them to take ownership of their roles and decisions. By doing so, leaders enable their teams to excel and make a meaningful impact.

Finding What Works for You

Coach Izzo's insights reminded me that leadership is not one-size-fits-all. His success demonstrates the importance of adapting one's leadership style to the unique challenges and circumstances of the team or organization. While some leaders may thrive by emphasizing trust and open communication, others may achieve greatness by pushing boundaries and demanding more from their teams.

Next year’s featured speaker at the event will be Coach Brad Underwood from the University of Illinois. I’m ready to get my ticket now and hear his perspectives. That’s the cool thing. Leadership is dynamic and ever evolving. Being open to new and different ideas helps make you a more successful leader. That’s how I see it this week from where I sit.