6 Leadership Lessons from Queen Elizabeth II for Business Executives
The passing of Queen Elizabeth II concludes the longest-reigning era in British history. She has served as the Sovereign Head of State of her country and the figurehead of the Commonwealth of Nations for 7 decades.
During her 70-year reign, she has been through triumph, tragedy and trauma, yet witnessed exponential growth, and unrivalled admiration around the world.
As entrepreneurs, business owners and professionals, it is with a keen eye that we must observe the immense experiences of Elizabeth II. We should yield lessons that her leadership holds for us, that can inspire us to have a dynamic approach to how we conduct our businesses. Queen Elizabeth was a visionary that found playing the long game more powerful and effective than focusing on immediate gratifications.
In her memory, here are some timely lessons of Elizabeth's leadership I would like to share with professionals and business executives.
Queen Elizabeth II has consistently and over seven decades been an example of duty, strength, commitment, hope and dignity until the day she died.
Despite being constantly in the public eye, and facing various personal, family and cultural challenges, she has been clear about her position as a monarch, and her vision for her country.
Here is the lesson:
As a business executive, be crystal clear on your position and mission, inspire your employees, and set an example for all your stakeholders, regardless of all the outside factors that may cause you to flag.
Queen Elizabeth II was passionate about her work, had a clear sense of duty and was resilient during the hard times. She had to make hard decisions for the betterment of the United Kingdom.
Whether it was during the war or family troubles, and the constant change in the media, she has always found a way to be relevant and move forward by overcoming obstacles.
Here is the lesson:
As business leaders, we may face unforeseen challenges, or have to make hard decisions and not “feel like” doing it. When others are counting on us, we need to demonstrate our passion for what we do, push forward, and be resilient, so that our employees will also put their hearts into the work.
During the 70-year reign of Queen Elizabeth II, the world and the position of the United Kingdom changed dramatically. Yet, the Queen created a sense of values, vision, and direction for Great Britain, that its people seem to have maintained the same throughout the years.
Here is the lesson:
Great leaders - who lead great companies and organisations - create and maintain a clear sense of values and purpose even when the specifics and tactics change throughout time.
Queen Elizabeth was consistent and dedicated, and never got involved in the frivolities of political alliances. Her strength in leadership is the cornerstone of being the symbol of the United Kingdom. It is said that her motto was “Don’t Complain, Never Explain” which says a lot about her leadership style.
Here is the lesson:
As leaders, it is crucial for you to create a brand identity that is consistent and has a clear message. In order to create a healthy ecosystem at work that is based on respect, surround yourself with trusted advisors. People who can be discrete when conducting business, and dealing with sensitive information.
Princess Elizabeth was on an official tour in Kenya when her father passed. At age 26, she became Queen and embraced her duties as a sovereign head of state, and understood the importance of securing the legacy of the crown.
Through all the historical events, and plenty of distractions that The Royal Family created for her with their personal lives, the Queen presented a sense of stability and calm. She rose above momentary challenges by playing the long game and staying true to the higher order of purpose that the monarchy represents in the UK.
Here is the lesson:
As business leaders and entrepreneurs, we are constantly faced with incredible highs and lows. During instability, growth and innovation, we need to maintain the equilibrium. We have to carry out our duties to our fullest capacity. For long-term growth and success, we need to maintain the clarity of our mission.
Queen Elizabeth provided stability and long-term direction to both her country and her family during her long reign. She understood that the monarchy’s future is on the shoulders of her heirs, Charles, William and George and it was her duty to pass the torch. With diligence, she trained and mentored future monarchs strategically, to portray her successors as strong and capable members of the Crown.
Here is the lesson:
In order to make a successful company that can last the time, as a leader you need to know when it’s time to pass the torch of leadership in the best interest of your organisation
During your leadership, it is essential for you to invest time to mentor and train your team so that they have the tools to facilitate the ultimate mission and vision of your business after you.
