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Self Improvement > Leadership > Conversations in Management: John Hancock
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Article rating : 0.00, 0 votes. Author : George Ebert
"Troops properly inspired, and animated by a just confidence in their leader will often exceed expectation, or the limits of probability." -John Hancock
In a matter of months, the Continental Army had been reduced by two thirds. After early success in Boston, it had experienced stunning defeats on Long Island, in New York and in New Jersey. Now, in full retreat, the Americans were encamped on the Pennsylvania shore of the Delaware River anticipating an imminent attack by the British.
Desperate, General George Washington struggled to identify the one “brilliant stroke,” that would rally his dispirited troops and the hopes of a fledgling nation. That one brilliant stroke would turn about to be his improbable assault on the Hessian’s winter garrison in Trenton, New Jersey. Daring under the best of circumstances, the attack was complicated by the crossing of the Delaware (for ever immortalized in Leutze’s 1851 painting, Washington Crossing the Delaware) in some of the worst winter weather recorded. Ultimately, only a third of the attackers made it to Trenton. They were exhausted by their overnight march through hurricane-like winds, punishing snow, bruising hail and near impenetrable ice. Many were bare footed; some were dressed only in threadbare blankets. But they attacked with zeal and their victory was complete. In the process, they inspired their own country and rattled the entire British Empire. It was the turning point in what would still be a very long war.
John Hancock, then President of the Continental Congress, wrote these words in a congratulatory letter to General Washington following the victory. They are as pertinent today as they were in December of 1776. Simply put; the first responsibility of a leader is to inspire confidence in those you lead.
Confidence is the single greatest predictor of success in. Confident people and
teams succeed—uncertain people and teams don’t. Yet leaders at all levels find themselves squeezed to produce better results with fewer people in less time. The natural inclination is to dive in, work frantically and hope that the people issues take care of themselves. But most followers can’t take care of themselves. They are relying on leadership for the vision, support, resources and encouragement to get the job done. If you’re in charge, that makes it your responsibility.
Your team will amaze you with what they can deliver. Before you can be amazed, however, you’ll have to inspire them—you’ll have to build their confidence in you, the organization and the mission. Part of it is listening and responding. Part of it is keeping everyone in the loop, always encouraging sound effort and ensuring equitable treatment. The business of inspiring the troops is something that should occupy you every day. You may not be able to offer more pay or better benefits, so focus on what you can do and make a difference there. After all, it’s cold comfort to attribute your failure as a leader to the failings of those who lead you.
Today’s a new day —find your brilliant stroke— win your own victory at Trenton. —Ebert
About the Author:
George Ebert is the President of Trinity River Seminars and Consulting, a firm specializing in the custom design and delivery of team building, personal growth and ethical development programs. Mr. Ebert is a highly sought after speaker, educator, and consultant with over thirty years experience in both the public and private sectors. He has presented widely throughout the Unites States. George is the author of the management cult classic, "Climbing From the Fifth Station: A guide to building teams that work!"
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