Leaders have a responsibility to be literate. And by the word “literate”, I mean knowledgeable. Now that information is ubiquitous, available through our fingertips at the closest keyboard, twenty-four seven, there is no longer any reason to claim that you don’t know. Ignorance is no longer an acceptable excuse. But real leadership literacy also requires critical thinking. It is possible to tell the difference between genuine data and pseudo-science; between real facts and false news. It requires however that you read beyond the headlines and evaluate the sources and the author. It is possible to appreciate and comprehend the people you work with. But that means that you need to make the effort and take the time to get to know them. Leadership literacy is not only essential, it is completely achievable.
5 Rules of 21st Century Leadership Literacy
With this cautionary counsel in mind, here are five rules of 21st century leadership literacy that every leader should follow:
- If you don’t understand what a word or phrase means, look it up. You know, Google it.
- If you’re meeting someone for the first time, take the time to get to know them in advance on LinkedIn. You know, on the Internet.
- If it’s something your company sells or provides, then learn how it is made or delivered. Talk to the experts in your company. Ask questions, listen to the answers.
- If it’s important to your employees, find out why and how. Talk to your people. Ask questions, listen to the answers.
- Before “sharing” information as truth, research it. Confirm that it comes from reliable peer-reviewed sources. Verify it at Snopes or RationalWiki or FactCheck. Then spread it around on social media.
If you’re a leader, then literacy is a prerequisite; ignorance is unacceptable. So look it up. Ask questions. Find out more. Check your biases and verify information.
Leadership literacy. Too simple? Or did I get it right? As always, I would love to hear from you. Please share your thoughts by commenting below.