Leaders often hear about the importance of being visionary, charismatic, and inspiring. While these traits are valuable, they must be built on a solid foundation of tactical and technical proficiency. Before anything else, you need to be mentally, tactically, and technically proficient. Without this core foundation, everything else is pointless.
The idea of being “fit and ready to go” is crucial for any leader. I first heard this concept from a US military professional on a podcast. It struck a chord with me because it encapsulates the essence of preparedness and capability. In leadership, being tactically and technically proficient isn’t just an advantage—it’s a necessity.
What Does Tactical and Technical Proficiency Mean?
Being technically and tactically proficient is a military phrase meaning that to exercise leadership, one must know how to perform their job inside and out. It matters not whether you are a leader in the British Army, a corporate team leader, a university vice-chancellor, or a fundraiser for a charity; knowing how to do your job is essential. Furthermore, it’s up to the leader – in whatever their profession – to uphold the highest ethical and moral standards for themselves and those in their teams. Anything short of these standards means that, at some point, the leader will fail both themselves and those they’re leading.
Technical Proficiency
Technical proficiency refers to having a thorough understanding of the theory, procedures, tools, equipment, and techniques related to your field. It’s about possessing the knowledge required to perform tasks accurately and efficiently.
Tactical Proficiency
Tactical proficiency involves the ability to apply your technical knowledge in real-world situations. It’s about making well-informed decisions, adapting to circumstances, and employing appropriate strategies to achieve goals. Tactical proficiency also encompasses teamwork, communication, and critical thinking under pressure.
When a leader understands the job, they can apply tactical steps effectively. This means matching the right people to the right tasks and delegating work properly. Mismanaging this can lead to tasks not being completed correctly, damaging your credibility as a leader.
The Consequences of Not Being Proficient
Imagine your team needs to learn a specific computer function. While individuals should take responsibility for their learning, it’s up to the leader to guide them. Providing the necessary tools and time for your team to develop these skills builds a technically proficient and happier workforce. You needn’t deliver them the training, but you should understand its value and the time it will take them to become skilled in it.
Bridging Skill Gaps
Take a good look at your team to identify any skill gaps and find ways to fill them. Providing access to required training and resources shows your commitment to their development, leading to better performance and a more positive work environment.
Leadership Beyond Charisma
While personal charisma is beneficial, it alone is not enough to lead effectively. True leadership requires a combination of interpersonal skills and technical proficiency. Leaders who are only charismatic may struggle to deliver results if they lack a deep understanding of their business.
The Role of Continuous Learning
A technically proficient leader is always learning. This involves keeping up with industry trends, reading relevant books, attending conferences, and participating in professional societies. Tactical proficiency involves understanding the broader environment and networking with other leaders.
Teaching and Elevating the Team
A proficient leader is also a teacher. By passing on their knowledge and skills, they can elevate their team’s performance, enhancing both the team’s capabilities and the leader’s expertise.
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Leaders who focus on both their technical and leadership skills have a distinct edge. If your team spends all day teaching you the business, they’re not executing the mission. By mastering both the technical aspects of your business and the art of leadership, you can truly guide your team to high performance.
In the end, the question remains: What are you doing to bring your team up to speed tactically and technically? The answer to this will determine the effectiveness and success of your leadership.
Andy.
