Role of senior leaders in a 30-Day Challenge

Role of a senior leader

You have signed up your organisation for a 30-Day Challenge and this lesson deal with your role as senior leader in the 30-Day Challenge that you are convening.  As a start, here is a snap shot of the role and attributes  

Roles

  • Curator of the experience of the teams during the 30 days.
    • Blocks interference and meddling from other leaders.
    • Encourages risk-taking and experimentation.
    • Shows curiosity and appreciation for the work of the team.
  • Role model for the 30-Day team leader, helping them lead with confident humility.
  • Custodian of the Challenge Note: Ensures that the team operates within the framework set out by the leaders.
  • Connector of the 30-Day team with other leaders and stakeholders to mobilise support as needed.

Attributes

  • Passionate about the topic but has a flexible view of the problem or solutions.
  • Respected by others as a neutral player who can put the collective’s interest ahead of their own organisational interest.
  • Able to stand back and let others (with less influence) make decisions: humble & self-aware.
  • Has genuine respect for and confidence in team members (and generally in individuals lower in the organisational hierarchy). 
  • Able and willing to wear a system-wide hat during the 100 days (representing all leaders) rather than their organisational hat.

It’s a good start. But there are probably many questions on your mind:

  • Why exactly is this role needed? After all, the team will have a coach to guide them.
  • What are my prerogatives in this role? What decisions can I make? 
  • How do I assess the degree of my success in playing this role? 
  • What are the minimal things I need to do to fulfill my obligations in this role? 
  • If I have the time and passion to do so, what additional things can I do to help? 
  • What skills will help me play this role effectively? 
  • Who do I turn to if I need guidance and help fulfilling this role? 
  • What might I personally gain from my experience in the role, and how can I maximise my chances of making these gains?

This lesson track these questions...