A number of weeks ago I was reflecting about the profession of a couple of very close friends of mine. They are professional pilots, and as I was thinking about their fight routines it occurred to me the process of getting a plane off the ground is somewhat similar to lifting a team or company upwards, towards their overall mission.

Great leaders get teams and organizations airborne, lifting them up and sailing forward towards their goals.

Whether someone is brand new, has seen a great deal of success, or finds themselves in a bit of a rut, all leaders need to acquire lift on a regular basis. It builds influence, develops trust, attains goals, and secures reputations. Lift gives leaders the ability to lift others, change industries, boldy go where no one has gone before.

While there are certain physical aerodynamics to take into account for a plane, there are also organizational “aerodynamics” that come into play as well. Knowing these properties and how to use them can greatly increase the amount of “lift” your leadership can give to your teams.

Over the next few posts we’ll review how to achieve “Leadership LIFT”. Here’s a brief outline of our “flight plan”:

• Start on the Ground
• Chart Your Course
• Have a Clear Vision
• Get People On Board
• Check Your Systems
• Gain Momentum
• Adjust Your Altitude and Enjoy The View

In the meantime, think about these terms and what they mean in your leadership trajectory. Where are you leading others to? Who are your flight crew? Have you yet to actually get off the ground?

I look forward to piloting with you!!

(image courtesy aviation-history.com)