Tip 238 - An Agile Mindset in Action: Part 3

What does it mean to be an agile leader? Consider putting these practices into action.

• Agile leaders thrive in the face of uncertainty and rapid change. They do this by creating an environment for stakeholders to push change forward by driving adaptation through frequent, incremental changes that constantly produce value.

• Being agile means being willing to quickly let go of what is not working and try something else. Agile leaders challenge their beliefs and assumptions so they can meet the needs of the moment versus clinging to a cause that is perhaps already lost.

• We live in a fast-paced and chaotic environment where leaders are expected to be consistent, firm, and resolute. Leaders who are firm may appear strong, but they often fail to adapt. The ability to listen and learn is a valuable skill that requires vulnerability, confidence, and psychological safety. Agile leaders get this.

• In leadership, agility implies a desire for speed, commitment to change, the capability to iterate, and communication skills to navigate ambiguity while remaining connected. It promotes connecting the dots and operating as one.

• The most powerful way to be agile is to demonstrate agility to your team members. People like to be communicated with and recognized differently. Show how much you value your team’s contribution by understanding and being what they need. Productivity and engagement will benefit.

References:

Council post: What does it mean to be an agile leader? (2018) Forbes. Available at: https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescoachescouncil/2018/06/29/what-does-it-mean-to-be-an-agile-leader (Accessed: 26 July 2023).