"Leadership is not about titles, positions, or flowcharts. It is about one life influencing another." John C. Maxwell
"Don't tell people how to do things, tell them what to do, and let them surprise you with the results." George Patton Jr.
A few weeks ago, I asked some friends if they thought you could "teach" leadership. The consensus was more or less that you can teach the tactics or strategy, but, at the root of it, leadership is an innate skill. Some people are born to lead. Some are born to follow. And that's okay. But that doesn't mean everyone can't have potential to lead in some way.
The fire service has a set hierarchy in place. You know the chain of command. You know who to go to. Your leadership should be clear.
But that doesn't mean leadership only goes to those with a different colored helmet. Leadership might start at the top, but it is reflected from the bottom. "Attitude reflects leadership."
There are some people who do not have any desire to be an officer. They like keeping their black shield. That doesn't mean they can't lead or that they aren't going to be leaders! You can have too many leaders. You need people who are able to follow and execute orders. But you know what I think? That's a form of leadership in itself. Be an example. Set the standard. I don't think people consider this a form of leadership but it is! Leadership doesn't always have to be in the form of fireground operations, either. If you're the one at the station stepping up to check equipment or keeping the trucks clean, people notice. It can be called stepping up, it can be called a matter of pride. It can be doing what is right.
You can throw a small rock-a pebble-and the resulting ripples spread out in all directions. Why do I say this? Small actions can cause larger reactions. Leadership does not always have to be an action of rallying the troops. It can be as simple as doing the menial task that others might overlook. It is getting done what needs done. You do what you need to do. You do what is right. Doing what's right, setting an example-that's leadership. Be the standard. Help out, step up.
Leadership does not have to be a burden or struggle. It can be working together as a team. Again, firefighter is like a team sport. You have the coach (Chief/Incident Commander) and assistant coaches (officers), but leadership doesn't stop there. Members of the team are supposed to step up and lead, too. Together. Work together. It takes the cooperation and effort of everyone to obtain success.
You don't need to stand out to be a leader. Yes, we do need those people. I guess what I am trying to say is that you can lead by following. You can instill more confidence in a leader by following them. Others might follow your example too. Motivation can be contagious. Show your dedication.
"The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires." -William Arthur Ward.
I think that quote by Ward is perfect for firefighting. I am not just talking about drilling. Hopefully, your leadership in your department can have this effect on you-explaining, demonstrating, and inspiring. You should want to get better. You should want to learn more. I joined the fire department at 14 years old. I don't think I would have thought I would have held a Board position and gotten my EMT and FFI by the time I was 21. Yes, I wanted it. But there were people along the way that helped me get there-and made me want it more.
This article takes leadership from, not a "what do I do" perspective but "what do THEY need" perspective. It is that doing what's best for the team attitude.
This post is great for leadership development in the fire service overall. Let's work together. I can't stress this enough. This doesn't just apply to your department-your mutual aid departments and at drills too. This is a great perspective too on attitude. This is a dangerous job. You gotta do what's right. You always got to do what's right. It might not be easy, it might not be popular. Don't let complacency of others change you. Rather, you change them. Challenge, motivate, and lead your crew. Not necessarily all at the same time. Maybe not each one to everyone either.
Protect life and sustain property. Safety. Creating a better environment.
I like how Cline's post talks about development of the company officer. Remember, I said that leadership can't always be taught. But Cline said exactly what I believe. People might have natural leadership skills, but you can't become a leader all on your own. Noticing a theme here, anyone?
Here's another recurring theme: we're always learning. Remember that. Develop your skills. Never stop. Be combat ready.
And, as always, stay safe.
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| By chance, I happened to find this cartoon by Paul Combs today. I think it's very appropriate to what needs to be said. |
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