What is a True “Big Picture” Leader?
The concept that to be a good leader you must focus only on the “big picture” and leave the details to others is a myth. Effective leaders cover both sides of the ledger. However, this doesn’t mean you must know the intimate mechanics of every process. It means that you do have to be aware of the basic details, that you have the right people covering them and that you have a follow-up system. Here’s an example, from a first hand experience, that has withstood the test of time. We Called Him “Red” Early in my Navy experience aboard the guided missile cruiser USS Little Rock, CLG-4, (cruisers are named after state capitals) I served under an executive officer, Commander Berry (we called him “Red” in private, of course), who seemed to be everywhere at once. He was a WWII survivor of a torpedo attack and was my first true example of serious leadership. After over 40 years I still use many of his methods today that helped me gain the edge and will share one special one with you here. Attent