Ambidexterity – a key to effective leadership for exponential age!

In our rapidly evolving world, leadership is shifting from traditional models to adaptive styles, which necessitates being ambidextrous in handling the following seven key tensions, as Jennifer Jordan and Michael Wade describe in this HBR Article:

1. Expert vs. Learner: Traditional leaders rely on their expertise, while emerging leaders are open to learning from others. Tim Westergren of Pandora combined industry knowledge with a willingness to learn from others.
2. Constant vs. Adaptor: Traditional leaders value consistency, while emerging leaders adapt to changing circumstances. Jim Whitehurst of Red Hat admitted mistakes and adapted when necessary.
3. Tactician vs. Visionary: Traditional leaders focus on clear plans, while emerging leaders emphasize vision. Vas Narasimhan of Novartis invested in AI while ensuring practical implementation.
4. Teller vs. Listener: Traditional leaders give directives, while emerging leaders listen before deciding. Angela Ahrendts of Burberry had a clear vision but gathered input from diverse sources.
5. Power Holder vs. Power Sharer: Traditional leaders hold power, while emerging leaders empower others. Marco Bizzarri of Gucci empowered creative directors while maintaining financial control.
6. Intuitionist vs. Analyst: Traditional leaders trust their intuition, while emerging leaders rely on data. Barbara Coppola of IKEA combines data-driven decisions with regional innovation.
7. Perfectionist vs. Accelerator: Traditional leaders seek perfection, while emerging leaders prioritize speed and adaptability. Charlotte Lindsey-Curtet of the International Red Cross balances privacy with speed in refugee reunification.

To thrive in this exponentially transforming world, leaders should:

• Develop self-awareness to understand their natural tendencies.
• Learn, adapt, and practice micro-behaviors that address the tensions.
• Gain contextual awareness to know when to emphasize one approach over the other.
• Seek diverse perspectives through programs like reverse mentoring.

What are your thoughts?