A SUCCESSFUL PERSON FINDS THE RIGHT PLACE FOR HIMSELF, BUT A SUCCESSFUL LEADER FINDS THE RIGHT PLACE FOR OTHERS.
Two steps.
It was a small gesture, likely unnoticed by many, but it was vitally important because it showed what type of leader this person is.
During a team meeting, when the lead was talking, this person took two small steps back so those in the circle would all have a clear view of the person presenting.
Was it necessary?
No, it wasn't.
But it reiterated, at that moment, that those tiny, unseen actions are vital when recognizing the right person to lead.
I'm a business owner and media director, and I hope that many who work with me feel that I support and encourage in a way that denotes a good leader, but I'll be the first to admit that I likely would not have noticed that small action to take.
Sometimes, it's hard to work for others. Not often, but once in a while, it's our inherent nature to question authority. I don't mean in a revolutionary way, but more so in a directive way. I also want to admit that I've been that person on this team. Now, let me be clear: I haven't questioned the passion or dedication to the art of telling stories, but I'd say more so in the assignment components or the cooperation for an incorporated media vision versus independent shooting. That's not to say it's wrong; it's just different in how I lead and run a business, so naturally, I question how it could be better.
Our life experiences, regardless of how much we don't want them to, will always show up in how we work with others and lead others. However, the measure of authentic leadership is how that evolves. I wouldn't be part of something if I didn't see progress and change in the right direction and although we don't want to admit it, those are almost as vital as business interactions. I'm telling you all of this so you can understand why I'm addressing the next part of this little talk.
A common thread seems prevalent in a specific space: the constant media degrading. Honestly, I'm tired of seeing and hearing it. You cannot discuss community and camaraderie and actively support and encourage negative talk.
Let me hit the brakes because I need you to understand something significant.
All of this talk about how WE (because yes, you are including all of us) fail, yet it's evident that those complaining have yet to work or be involved with a professional sports space and company. What you fail to understand is that a significant number of directives and stakeholders play a vital part in the whole media direction versus the small-scale storytelling you get to do as an independent contractor who comes and shoots for one client. Photographing for one athlete, or even multiple athletes, or one company is easy because your scope of work is minimal. You are accountable for ONE entity.
While I appreciate the various storylines that result from allowing outside creators, your job differs significantly from official media teams. What you do is supplementary, while what they do is foundational. The big difference between the two is what I discussed in the previous paragraph. An example of foundational work (I'm using my experience in both the independent, collegiate and professional space) for a commercial client is this:
- Content for the Main entity
- Content for Sport
- Content for Marketing
- Content for Partnerships
- Content for Ownership
- Content for Education
- Content for Sponsors
- Content for Social Media
- Content for Participants
- Content for Publishing
While one could argue that all of these components are part of shooting as a supplementary entity, they aren't—at least not in your role. The scope of work individuals do is minuscule compared to an entity's Media focus.
Here's a reminder and a suggestion that many of you need to hear.
First, if you want the space of old, remember that you wouldn't have the career you do if it were still the same. You can talk all day about the old times, but the restrictions then were those that are the industry standard in the professional sports space and are extremely limited.
Second, put your head down and do your work. Tell the stories you get to tell instead of constantly complaining about what they do wrong. You need to think about this, and I'm guessing this is not how you handle differences in your business or with those you work for, your words and constant complaints of displeasure on social media are of no value if you're not giving constructive feedback that helps incite ideas to promote change.
My advice is that if you want to see change and be taken seriously, take two steps back. True leadership means making decisions based on a full circle, not an obstructed view.
Much love,
GCP