Leadership and Communication: Masada

 

leadership and communication Masada

 

One of my favorite leadership lines is from the movie, “Masada.” Do you know the story?

Masada is also one of my favorite sites in Israel. It is a mountaintop that you can climb to or take the cable gondola. The ride up is steep, but the view from the top is amazing. You can see the whole region of desert and even the Dead Sea. For miles there is nothing to block your view. Unfortunately, the same view tortured a group of Israeli’s who  were the first to revolt against the  overpowering Romans. They lived on the top of Masada. Their community is still marked by the remains of dwellings, water systems, pools and other pockets of ancient interest. The small group had escaped against the Roman government but were pursued in time by the Roman army. Days turned to months and even years as the brave Israeli’s watched with intimidating horror as the Romans methodically built a siege ramp to provide access to their prey.  It took three years to build—as they watched. It was in the atmosphere of this extreme tension that the leader’s assistant spoke softly but directly, “Speak like Moses, or it is over.”

As a leader you must understand:

  • Your silence speaks volumes.  The withholding of a kind and affirming word may be troubling.
  •  Lack of clear instruction could be frustrating and lead to chaos.
  • The lack of spoken respect for your team members or staff may minimize your own.
  • The absence of leadership by default picks a different leader, one who may not be qualified or recognized.
  • The failure to speak makes others talk.
  • The avoidance of leadership demands another take your place.leadership and communication word puzzle
  • The fear to speak disqualifies you from your strong lead.
  • The inability to speak like a leader undermines your ability to lead in the eyes of others.

So, “Moses”, what needs to be said to the people following you?  If unsure, remember the wise proverb, “There is much safety in the multitude of counsel.”  Get the counsel you need and network to problem solve, but you alone will have to assimilate the advice and  decide to lead. Leadership and communication will aid you.