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Mandela’s leadership tips

Thursday, 7 August 2008

Nelson is undoubtedly one of the world’s most respected leaders, so it couldn’t hurt to bring a bit of his leadership style into the business context. Here are Mandela’s eight lessons of leadership as reported by Time.com:

1. Courage is not the absence of fear; it's inspiring others to move beyond it: Leaders must keep going despite fear, and in doing so help others to do the same.
2. Lead from the front – but don't leave your base behind: Even the greatest leaders can’t do it on their own.
3. Lead from the back – and let others believe they are in front: Persuade people to do things, and let them believe it was their idea.
4. Know your enemy – and learn his favourite sport: Learning a little about the opposition will help you keep the lines of communication open.
5. Keep your friends close – and your rivals even closer: Embracing your rivals will enhance your ability to control them.
6. Appearances matter – and remember to smile: Don’t worry about appearing vain. Looking sharp and dressing the part inevitably has an impact on those around you.
7. Nothing is black or white; life is neither either/or – learn to be comfortable with contradictions.
8. Quitting is leading too: Knowing how to abandon a failed idea, task or relationship is often the most difficult kind of decision a leader has to make.