It's Not Always Right to Be Right

Chapter 12What Would Margaret Thatcher say?

Former British Prime Minister Margaret Hilda Thatcher.

In my mind, one of the most legendary conviction leaders of all time. When she died on 8 April 2013, the British population was completely divided. Despite living half my adult life in or near the UK, I was taken aback at the level of polarisation.

A leader of conviction often needs to be black and white. One position or the other, but seldom both. As you will hear, I love conviction leadership and I am inspired by it. I just feel some ideas need compromise and balance.

Being respected and liked as a leader: now that's worth chasing.

THE MESSAGE

One of the most common lessons drummed into us throughout our careers is that of earning the respect of others, and that respect is far more important than being liked. Every manager, coach, consultant, textbook and excruciating three‐full‐day leadership course tells exactly the same story.

It makes perfect sense. Margaret Thatcher said so; my dad even used to say it. So it must be true.

I have a question, though: Does it need to be?

The value of respect is a given. Yet why can't we be respected and liked at the same time? Why do we see this as reserved for a few lucky souls or the ultimate relationship builders, and not as achievable by every leader who walks this planet?

The value of being both respected and liked is clear. People will do what is asked of a leader they respect; but people will walk over coals for a leader they respect ...