Dearest reader,

I am overjoyed to see this offbeat and inquisitive question. Let your friend know that I appreciated it.

Security guards, maintenance staff, and chauffeurs have a workplace too. They have their customers, and they work with their teams. Leadership is not anointed. Yet, it is easily noticed when consistently displayed. A security guard who voluntarily takes quick strides to the parking, the moment he spots an employee or a chauffeur struggling to find a space is noticed for his leadership.

The year was 2019. A security guard was retiring. He was paid by the security contractor providing services to a large Technology firm. The HR Head of that Global Technology company organized a grand farewell to the security guard. This was never the norm. It was normal for HR to organize farewell for senior leaders who served organization for over a decade. Why this security guard? That is because he was involved in something larger in adding value. He was passionate about Organ donation. He had invited almost every staff who accessed entry on organ donation seminars and took time smilingly to raise awareness.
A few listened, some were inspired and acted upon. Many refused to acknowledge his presence. This security guard was promoted to the Chief Security Officer position. He politely declined the position. His vision of saving lives was bigger than his livelihood.

Now coming to the principles from ‘Father Of Your Team’, they are applicable. You know the takeaway from the chapter ‘See the Big Picture’ and what happens when the client Vanessa realizes that the project staff understands the context. How a security guard or the chauffeur perceives the importance of their role determines how long the organization they work for continues doing business with them. Father of Your Team is not limited to shifting leaders’ perspectives. Teams are using methods from Freddie, the ‘Father Manager’ to develop their complementary skills as their virtual mentor to transform lives. Who knows that chauffeur and security guard, could outgrow to a role which they could not believe in, with the inspiration and guidance from this book?

Soulfully Yours,

Freddie

The Father Manager