There is a special type of leader capable of transforming a company from good to great:
The Type 5 Leader
Jim Collins and his research team spent years analyzing thousands of companies to define this leadership style. To explain one of its fundamental traits, the research team uses an interesting analogy:
The mirror and the window
The mirror symbolizes self reflection, finding reason within oneself. In contrast, a window symbolizes the outside view, evaluating and reasoning on external factors.
As there are infinite external factors influencing our life, it is tempting to look through the window to find the reasons for our failures. When facing failure however, a type 5 leader would look in the mirror, reflecting on his own actions, taking responsibility for the failure. This leader would look through the window only to share success and acknowledge positive contributions.
Taking blame and sharing success may seem obvious, but it is contrary to how most businesses operate.
Even though someone self-critic and humble might face difficulty in a harsh business environment, the scientific research conducted by Collin and his team has shown that these exact characteristics are of fundamental importance for leaders willing to achieve and sustain greatness.
Find more on Collins five-year research on greatness reading „Good to Great“ from Jim Collins
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