The Leader of the Future

As a student of leadership effectiveness and influencing skills, a quote from Management Guru Peter Drucker provided inspiration I’m compelled to share with subscribers.

The leader of the past knew how to tell. The leader of the future will know how to ask. – Peter Drucker

Leading others for faster achievement of desired results is becoming a valued skill for both managing and selling. When my clients and participants are introduced to the concept of asking vs. telling it’s usually viewed as cutting edge stuff. The reality is that this skill can be traced back to Socrates, the Greek teacher and philosopher (469-399 BC). This skill is more commonly referred to as The Socratic Style.

Why is it important for leaders of the future to become more Socratic?

Through thoughtful questioning, we guide and encourage the thought processes of others. When we compel others to think deeper about our common issues, they gain ownership of the ideas and solutions that are generated. When engaged in collaborative thinking about solutions, all of us will always be smarter than one of us.

Leadership is the art of getting someone else to do something you want done because he wants to do it.  – Dwight D. Eisenhower

Peter Drucker recognizes that refining the art of leadership requires development of Socratic skills and habits.

Is the Socratic style of communication something inherent in most of us? Or, is it a skill and habit of thought that future leaders can and must develop to improve their effectiveness?

As you and your organization move toward our rapidly changing future, how will your skills keep pace? If you could find a way to change your old habits of telling, and become more Socratic, what more might you achieve by more effectively influencing the actions of others?

Why would I be asking?