The greatest leader ever? Santa Claus!

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I was thinking ... what connects executive coaching and Christmas? But of course, Santa Claus! Beyond the fact that he is the most emblematic character of the (consumerist) spirit of this holiday, it must be said that he is also the most interesting character, for his indisputable leadership. Let's try starting from one consideration: being Santa Claus is not easy.

First of all, his role requires him to convey serenity and enthusiasm to everyone, regardless of cultural, race and sex differences. In short, he must be able to grasp the intimate spark of happiness that shines hidden in all of us and bring it to full splendor, without being conditioned by any prejudice. But this is nothing. In September 2017, Sole24Ore published which are the largest industrial sites in the world, here they are: Volkswagen, Hyundai Motor, Flower Auction, Tesla and Boeing. But not even taking all 5 together would we be able to reach the size of Santa's factory! And what about distribution?

Stuff to make Amazon pale with all its subsidiaries around the world. Deliveries with drones? You make me laugh! Santa Claus is a life using a flying sleigh! And where is all this located? In a cold and isolated place, the stuff of nightmare industrial suburbs. Of this immense reality, Santa Claus is both the CEO and a worker. Santa does it all! By the way, no mistakes are allowed. We have no mercy for this entrepreneur, especially the children. For Santa, total quality is not an option, it is the only operational possibility. Frankly, I don't know of any manager who would be able to replace him, but one thing is certain: we can all learn from Santa Claus, both executive coaches and leaders.

Exclusively, I will reveal the 5 secrets of Santa's leadership. errors are not allowed. We have no mercy for this entrepreneur, especially the children. For Santa, total quality is not an option, it is the only operational possibility. Frankly, I don't know of any manager who would be able to replace him, but one thing is certain: we can all learn from Santa Claus, both executive coaches and leaders. In a completely exclusive way, I will reveal the 5 secrets of Santa's leadership. errors are not allowed. We have no mercy for this entrepreneur, especially the children. For Santa, total quality is not an option, it is the only operational possibility. Frankly, I don't know of any manager who would be able to replace him, but one thing is certain: we can all learn from Santa Claus, both executive coaches and leaders. In a completely exclusive way, I will reveal the 5 secrets of Santa's leadership.

1. Listen to his collaborators

Santa is constantly encouraging feedback from his staff. It's hard to get elves to work at the North Pole, regardless of their views and needs.

2. It created a positive work environment

This goes hand in hand with listening to its employees. He's been able to create a positive, encouraging work environment that rewards creativity, ingenuity and hard work.

3. He is the king of planning and organization

Santa Claus is known for having very precise production plans. He shifted the exercise of control from elves to trials. Everything is organized in a clear and transparent way, so that everyone is able to intercept any anomalies and remedy them independently.‍

4. He knows how to market himself and his products

As Christmas approaches, his brand (image and name) appears everywhere. Linguistic and cultural barriers are completely irrelevant. Its "No Tech" brand has defeated various tablets and consoles. In fact, children still write letters to Santa Claus with pen and paper (perhaps to ask for a tablet ... you can't have everything!)‍

5. He has an ingrained sense of responsibility

‍Accountability is an important quality for a leader and Santa knows it. He constantly measures his own performance and those of the elves, without hesitation and with maximum openness. He knows that only by taking responsibility for his own results, you can improve and grow.

Now that you know the secrets of the greatest leader ever, don't you doubt that you too can be a better leader? Still have doubts about executive coaching? Do you want a tip? Don't waste time and write your letter to Santa Claus and ask for a coaching path. It is a gift you give to yourself and to everyone who works with you. You don't want to get the bad leader's coal?

Click here to read more about the Types of employees during the holiday season.

About the author

Giuseppe Ando is a C-Level & Executive Coach - Associate Partner at the acclaimed Marshall Goldsmith Stakeholder Centered Coaching. With a career that presides at the crux of the Venn diagram of Passion, Skills, and Experience, Giuseppe’s reputation as top executive coach has spanned decades. Among his many accolades, he is also recognized for his unique ability to understand and inspire those he coaches to excel professionally and personally while also delivering their organization’s desired results.