Keys to Peer Leadership: An Unlikely Source By Kevin E. O’Connor, CSP s a small business chief executive officer observed a window washer at the Atlanta airport one day, she asked what she thought to be a straightforward question, “What’s the secret to window washing?” “No secret, ma’am,” the window cleaner said as he continued working. “I just focus on keeping on with my tools and my experience. I keep on going.” The master continued working with
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repeated, slick motions, his tool remaining fixed to the glass, and leaving not one smudge. Then, true to his word, he kept on going. When the CEO asked what was in the blue water, the cleaning professional smiled and said, “I can’t tell you that! If you knew that, you could do my job!” Then, before attacking another pane, he said, “It is very special, though.” When a professional window cleaner uses just the right combination of resources: Minimal tools, years of experience, a flowing and non-stop motion, and a secret concoction of suds, his or her work is efficient, engaging and
looks natural—perhaps easy—to those who observe. Unlike the window washer, many team leaders don’t find their work to be efficient, easy or appear natural. These leaders often do not have degrees in leadership. They are promoted because they are very good at their jobs. Their former colleagues and friends now report to these “peer leaders.” There is a skill to leading your former peers without encountering resistance, resentment and regret. When your toolbox contains a simple collection of thinking, communicating, and acting that is coherent, ordered and
intentional, your leadership appears as if it is natural. When you’re charged with leading a team of your peers or former peers, the right combination of resources makes all the difference. The following techniques should be at the core of every peer leader’s toolbox.
1. Minimal tools keep you focused The most effective leader uses only one tool: His or her personality. One great peer leader uses his thirst for understanding and information. When a member of his team enters his office, he asks that person to be the teacher