Challenges

Leadership - High Challenge and High Support

The recent Ashes series has provided high drama in short spaces of time (insert comments about the state of test cricket)...

We have witnessed significant moments of leadership, one particularly stands out. Ben Stokes, England Captain, using his leadership toolkit.

Trying to illustrate any deeper psychological traits would be nonsense as I'm only catching up on TV the next day. However, certain moments are thought provoking even if they aren't all that accurate.

You could see challenge, trust and accountability in a moment of interaction between Stokes and Archer. Archer is frustrated with something - field placements perhaps. Stokes appears to be question Archer's thinking about him first - perhaps his bowling isn't where it needs to be. Rightly or wrongly it seems clear Archer is able to accept the comments and put it to work. You get the feeling if Archer responds well - he will get a great response in kind.

In another instance we witness ultimate support - batting together and working as a duo with the team's winning interests at the forefront, demonstrating the ability to both support and challenge with trust from both people.

How do leaders build trust in a high challenge and high support environment?

Perhaps some of the following elements can be established...
Fairness
Consistency
Safety
Honesty
Competence
Humility
Clear expectations