A TRUE LEADER LEADS FROM BEHIND
Just like how the shoehorn tool helps us achieve the desired outcome of easily pushing our feet into the shoe. A leader also should lead the team with that much ease & silent support. Let’s understand how can a leader help its team using this tool.
A real-life example of leading from the back is Nelson Mandela’s leadership during the negotiations to end apartheid in South Africa. Instead of dominating discussions, he empowered his team and encouraged collaboration, allowing others to take the spotlight while he guided the overall direction subtly. Mandela’s humility and focus on fostering unity ensured that diverse voices were heard, building trust and collective ownership of the process. This approach helped achieve a peaceful transition and demonstrated how effective leadership doesn’t always require being at the forefront.
In an interview, we found Ravi Kant, Former VC of TATA Motors “Perhaps leading from the back will make for more sustainable success. It will certainly make for happier organisations”.
“Technology has made people lonely… there is a need to bring warmth in society,” said Ravi Kant, former vice-chairman, Tata Motors”.
Some Tips for Leading from Behind:
- Impact vs Reward: Like a shoehorn, leaders may feel unappreciated, but true leaders give selflessly, making a difference even when unnoticed.
- Altruism: Great leaders consistently help and enable, ensuring their contributions matter, regardless of recognition.
- Letting Go: A shoehorn exits gracefully after its job is done; similarly, stellar leaders know when to step back without clinging to roles.
- Adding Value: Leaders, like shoehorns, remain relevant by staying impactful, even in less visible or side-lined roles.
- Enabling, Not Replacing: A shoehorn connects the foot and shoe; great leaders enable collaboration, avoiding unnecessary busyness or dominance.
- Reflect on Your Role: Be a shoehorn for your team—helping, easing, and enabling without authority or force, creating harmony in your culture.
Reflect on how you can be the shoehorn for your team—making a lasting difference through quiet, impactful support.