Next week I am taking my family to Greece for two weeks of well-earned R&R. We will be learning about Greek mythology too.
A famous Greek myth that has entered common language is that of Achilles.
When he was a baby, it was foretold that he would die young. To prevent his death, his mother took him to the river Styx which offered powers of invulnerability.
She dipped his body into the water; however, because she held Achilles by his heels, everything but the back of his feet were washed over by the magical waters.
Achilles grew up to be a man of war who survived many great battles. One day, a poisonous arrow shot at him was lodged in his heel, killing him.
So when I say, “your leadership team is your Achilles heel” I mean that while it may not be causing you any problems today, there might be a built in flaw on the team that will make your company vulnerable.
I have learned this time and again!
I am asked by companies of all sizes to consult and help them get unstuck, or increase profitability, or set a growth or transition strategy, or to professionalize the leadership team to run the business.
Two weeks ago I was visiting a successful 8-mil company that looked to be doing great from the outside, but when I took a look ‘under the covers’ I discovered several flaws that would stop the company from growing to the next level.
In fact the leadership flaws I found could harm the company once it hit some bumps in the road.
Whether you are a 1 or 10 or a 100 million company, it is all the same.
You have to be constantly looking at your team, and understand where your Achilles heal is…
Your Challenge: Map out your growth aspirations; decide what type of leadership you need, and have an honest conversation how each leader will perform at the next level.
Are you ready for the future, no matter what it brings?
