In business, effective leadership isn’t just about making decisions from the top down—it’s about actively engaging with your team, leading by example, and demonstrating the values you believe in.
Imagine a coach on the sidelines of a sports game. They don’t just stand there barking orders; they’re actively involved in the game, demonstrating techniques, providing guidance, and motivating their players through their own actions.
Iowa Hawkeyes superstar guard, Caitlin Clark, is known for her amazing ability on the basketball court, but also for her passion and competitiveness. In the past, Clark has been criticized for her outburts directed at officials and even teammates; Hawkeyes head coach Lisa Bluder admitted that she has had to step onto the court and give Clark technical fouls during practice to help her work on composure. In a game against Nebraska, Clark got frustrated, looked to the bench and made an X motion with her hands after her pass bounced off a teammate’s hands. At the next dead ball, Bluder took out Clark, lectured her and even waved a finger at her superstar.
Photo Credit: Tyler Schank/NCAA Photos via Getty Images
However, Clark wouldn’t have it any other way. She called Bluder “one of the best our game has ever seen” and attributed many of her accomplishments to Bluder, per the Daily Iowan. “Over the course of my four years, I don’t know if I would have the type of success I do if I didn’t have amazing teammates but also a coach who really allows me to be myself,” Clark continued. “For that, I’m forever grateful.”
Just like any sports coach, leaders in the business world must actively participate in the work they oversee, showing their team what excellence looks like and providing tangible support along the way. Leaders need to commit to active participation and not just proclaim the importance of Lean.
As a seasoned practitioner in the principles of lean management, I’ve found that one of the most powerful ways to drive change and inspire others is through visible participation, not mere proclamation.
Leading through visible participation means rolling up your sleeves and getting your hands dirty alongside your team. It means being present on the front lines, understanding the challenges your employees face, and actively working to overcome them. When leaders participate in/or lead waste walks, coach problem solving sessions, and ask operators for their knowledge, the employees understand the importance of Lean. This approach builds trust, fosters collaboration, and demonstrates that you’re not just a figurehead, but a true partner in the pursuit of success.
As a coach and teacher in leadership, it’s important to recognize that actions speak louder than words. Your team is constantly observing your behavior, and they’ll take their cues from how you conduct yourself in the workplace. If you preach the importance of efficiency and quality but fail to embody those principles in your own work, your words will ring hollow. On the other hand, if you consistently model the behavior you expect from others—whether it’s showing up on time, embracing feedback, or going the extra mile—you’ll earn the respect and admiration of your team.
Leading through visible participation also involves providing ongoing coaching and guidance to your team members. Just as a coach helps athletes refine their skills and reach their full potential, leaders should take an active role in developing the talents of their employees. This means providing regular feedback, offering opportunities for growth and development, and empowering individuals to take ownership of their work.
Moreover, leaders must be willing to step into the role of teacher, sharing their knowledge and expertise with others. This could involve participation in training sessions, leading workshops, or simply taking the time to mentor junior team members. By investing in the growth and development of your employees, you not only strengthen your team, but you also create a culture of continuous improvement that drives long-term success.
In essence, leading through visible participation requires leaders to be fully engaged, actively involved, and deeply committed to the success of their team. By embodying the principles of lean management and adopting the mindset of a coach and teacher, leaders can inspire greatness, drive change, and create a workplace where everyone thrives. So, the next time you find yourself in a leadership role, remember: it’s not enough to simply talk the talk—you must also walk the walk.
