Vuyo attended our 3 Day Leadership course. His company has identified him as a potential supervisor and wish to start investing in his skills training.
Upon arrival I recognised his face. I had met him before. About a year ago I completed some Negotiation Training for Shop Stewards and Vuyo had been present. He impressed me then and he continues to do so now.
Over lunch we had a few discussions and it came to light that Vuyo had been employed in the same company for about seven years. I asked him why he had not applied for any supervisor positions before. His answer was simply: Well it wasn’t my turn before, it is my turn now.
Probing further it came to light that Vuyo had made the conscious choice to be a shop steward rather than a supervisor four years ago as he felt that he did not have the capacity to be both.
He had also recognised the need of his fellow union members for strong ethical leadership and believed that he was capable of providing that, especially if he did not have divided focus. Hence he took on the position of union shop steward, placing his own career on hold. Now he feels he has paid his dues to his community and is looking forward to progressing in his own career.
The attitude of this humble and selfless man impressed me no end. Isn’t that what leadership is all about? Building trust, having vision, being inspirational, staying dependable, committing to supportiveness, showing competency and remaining fair minded.
In my thinking we can certainly do with more leaders like Vuyo. With or without title. Salute my friend.
© Debbie is the CEO of Staff Training, a soft skills training company that prides itself on providing Real Solutions for Real People with Real Challenges.