The importance of effective leadership in tough times and exceptionally difficult times such as Covid is being highlighted by Lancashire recruitment specialist Walmsley Wilkinson.
Linda Walmsley, Director of Clitheroe-based Walmsley Wilkinson, endorsed the message from Colin Wood, Europe Chief Executive of global infrastructure firm AECOM.
As a result of the latest Inspiring Leader interview, a series conducted with key business leaders, Linda said: “Organisations large and small are seeing the benefits of true leadership in these challenging times. We are seeing a demand for different kinds of leadership reflecting empathy, emotional intelligence and integrity.
“This means understanding people as individuals, how they work including home working and at the same time having the courage to make tough decisions in challenging times such as these.”
Colin said: “I think what our people are looking for from us as leaders is consistency. Decision making is also key. In challenging times, I don’t really care if my team make a good or bad decision as long as they make a decision. If it’s a good decision, fantastic and everyone can learn from that. If it’s a bad decision, we can learn from that also, fix it and go on to do something else.
“You can’t judge a team on one bad decision. That classic analogy of judging someone on their performance in the last football match when in effect their performance should be judged over a season rings very true for me.
“Sometimes being a good follower is just as important as being a good leader. I think that loyalty has to work both ways. If you’re going to expect your team to be loyal to you, you’ve got to deserve that, so conversely, you’ve got to be loyal to them.”
Walmsley Wilkinson offers a professional partnership across all executive, management and specialist recruitment needs for all types of organisations in the private and public sector including Private Equity-owned businesses, large corporates and SMEs.
The company’s services extend across sectors including building technologies, advanced manufacturing and engineering, aerospace, health and social care, professional services and FMCG / distribution.
