There is no single leadership trait that guarantees success in any profession, but there is, based on my experience, one that many of the best leaders share: a fierce commitment to objectivity. And yet I realize it’s often not easy for leaders to remain objective.
Remaining Objective Is Hard, But the Best Leaders Figure Out How to Do It
Lessons from a sector where objectivity is literally life or death: spy agencies.
May 14, 2018
Summary.
To maintain a high standard of objectivity, the best leaders insist on the highest possible analytic and information gathering tradecraft, and rely on structured analytic and decision-making processes to filter out actual or unconscious biases. While there is no single leadership trait that guarantees success in any profession, this fierce commitment to objectivity should be prized by all and leaders should work every day to preserve it.
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HBR Learning
Leading People Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Leading People. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
What you need to know about being in charge.