Note from Art: this is not a political blog and there is no intent to communicate political leanings in this post. We are witnessing an unfortunate and fascinating leadership situation that involves poor judgment, bruised egos and potentially huge implications in the theater of conflict. Both lives and the difference between success and failure may be impacted by the outcome.
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I rarely follow a post with a related post, but the current stir created by General McChrystal, the senior military leader in Afghanistan, with his poor word choices and poor judgment in communicating with a reporter, begs a follow-on to Monday’s Leadership Caffeine post, The Word Selection of Journeyman Leaders.
General McChrystal clearly was not familiar with the Hyper-Reality approach to communicating preached and practiced by Ray Dalio, president of Bridgewater Associates, the world’s largest hedge fund.
In a recent article in the Wall Street Journal, entitled, “Money Talks: A Hedge Fund King Philosophizes on Truth and Weasels,” we learn a bit about the 295 principles that make up Mr. Dalio’s philosophy of “hyper-realism.” Specifically, we learn about Principal No. 11, which addresses the fact that, “Employees are not allowed to talk critically about someone unless the person is present.” It goes on to say:
“Principal No. 11: “Never say anything about a person that you wouldn’t say to him directly. If you do, you are a slimy weasel.”
As reported in the journal, if the employee breaks the rule three times, they can be fired.
Generaly McChrystal, for your transgression, you are a slimy weasel. Two more times and you are out. Now, please get back to doing what you have shown over a career that you can do so well and help us resolve this mess.
Mr. Obama, this is neither your McClellan or your MacArthur moment. (Although the historical repetition of the “Mc/Mac” is uncanny.) This is your opportunity to deal with a subordinate that slipped. Say what you have to say face-to-face and show us that you as the leader can take a shot to the ego and then let your General get back to work.
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Follow-Up from Art. Obviously, Mr. Obama did not agree. Again, a fascinating case in leadership.
Timely post Art,
Begs the challenge …how do we train our senior leaders not to make a similar mistake in the heat of battle? Particularly with social media , social marketing…
Interesting our President could not forgive him and use it as a compassion moment, instead of a chance to show he can kick ass.
Its always easy to pull the trigger, skilled leaders find ways to help key contributors make mistakes and bounce.
Mark Allen Roberts
Mark, I love your statement, “It’s always easy to pull the trigger, skilled leaders find ways to help key contributors make mistakes and bounce.” Thanks for reading and sharing! -Art