What we’re thinking
Leadership lessons from the golf course
I’m an annual golfer. Which means the occasional decent shot is inevitably followed by a number of shockers. One day when there is more time to practice…
But in the meantime, I enjoy watching. A few years back I was at the British Open following players around Lytham St Anne’s – wonderful to get so close to a bunker without having to play the shot! But the big one is the Ryder Cup. Back in 1999 a group of us Brits in Boston watched the European effort gradually disintegrate in Brookline as the Americans took the momentum on the final day. But last weekend was different. And I was interested to read this article by Graham McDowell – a true Ryder Cup hero – extolling the leadership virtues of the European Captain, Paul McGinley. He highlights five core qualities: meticulous attention to detail, great communication skills and leadership, ability to delegate, positive attitude and creativity, and ability to inspire. As I work on my own leadership, and support others to do the same, this is a great checklist to explore where things are working and where they can improve.
Andrew Bidnell is a professional certified coach and an experienced consultant who founded InsideOut Consulting in 2006. The focus is on leadership and communication and, in particular, the challenge of engagement – of self and of others – to achieve maximum impact and fulfillment. He has worked internationally with 1,000+ leaders in the public, private and not-for-profit sectors, always seeking to facilitate, challenge, support and unlock potential that lies inside an individual, a community, an organisation, and bring that strength, passion and knowledge out for maximum impact.