The Obsolete Leader

An old Twilight Zone episode called “Obsolete Man” provides fodder for a great discussion.  Romney Wordsworth has been called to trial for being “obsolete” – he is a librarian in a society that has done away with books, independent thinking, and valuing each person for what they bring to the world.  He is convicted and scheduled for execution.  We later find out he has a couple of other skills but never took them any further – according to his accusers. While awaiting the end, Wordsworth finds a way to bring out the worst in his judge contrasted with his own peace.  While the intent of the episode is clear from Rod Serling at the close – you become obsolete when you fail to recognize the worth, dignity, and value of people – there is another thought that also bubbles to the top.

How does a leader prevent himself from being obsolete?

Relevant leaders are readers/learners – they stay current on leadership topics and issues.  They understand the changes in their business.  They soak up the new information as it is released in journals, books, and the web.  It doesn’t mean that they adopt all new information without a thought.  But they provide a critical eye and ask if some of the new ideas could be relevant and cause a change. 

Relevant leaders value their team and recognize the worth and dignity of all.  This is essence of the message from Rod Serling, but it also is captured by Margie Blanchard in a more active way, “Leadership is love – leaders love their vision. They love their values. And [most importantly] they LOVE to serve others.”  It’s a servant leadership model that keeps the leader relevant to their teams.  That’s not to say everyone on a team will always stay, but a current and relevant leader will first look to see if there are skills that can be used somewhere else on the team before making a tough decision about who is on the team. And the process of change honors the person if needed.

Relevant leaders stay active in their field.  They refuse to be an island.  They interact with associations connected with their field.  They participate in networking events and interact with the new team members as well those that are equally tenured.  They aren’t chained to their office but look outward to see and hear how things are and give permission to their team to share reality without the sugarcoat.

Don’t let your leadership style and skills become obsolete – read and learn, be a servant leader, and stay active. 

“Don't be obsessed with getting your own advantage. Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand. Think of yourselves the way Christ Jesus thought of himself. (Philippians 2:4-5, the Message)