Search for Spock


It can be lonely at the top.  But only if you let it be.   Good leaders surround themselves with teams that share the burden, remembering that the leader has final accountability.  In particular, I urge leaders to find a “Mr. Spock.”  If you remember the original Star Trek series, or even if you don’t, Captain James T. Kirk was the leader of a strong team.  Notable among the team members was Mr. Spock, second in command.  Kirk was forceful, decisive, and intense.  Spock was cool, logical, and brought a balance to Kirk’s style.  He provided input and advice to Kirk, giving perspective that often informed Kirk’s actions, whether he took Spock’s specific advice or not.

I was lucky to have found my Spock during the most challenging part of my career.  As a trusted colleague and advisor, my Spock regularly worked through situations and issues with me.  We did not always agree, but he helped temper my style and was of great assistance in helping me work with the larger team.

The trick here is to have the team see your Spock as an extension of you.  Spock is not a “special” team member.  He is someone who can be trusted to serve as a conduit if you are not immediately available.  He is someone that team members can bounce ideas off of for input and guidance.  But he is also seen as part of the team.  This is a tall order.  Spock must be willing to take a bullet now and then.  He must also be willing to be frank and truthful with you.  The two of you must be willing to disagree in private and stand united in public.  The same is true for the larger team, but you and Spock will set the example.

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