Simon Sinek discussed the importance of good leadership in creating a safe and productive work environment in his corporate speech. He shared the story of Captain William Swenson, who was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for his actions during an ambush in Afghanistan. Captain Swenson risked his life to rescue wounded soldiers, displaying rare bravery in most workplaces.
Sinek argues that we don’t see more acts of heroism like Captain Swenson’s in the corporate world because we often have it backwards when it comes to leadership. In business, bonuses are given to those who sacrifice others for personal gain, whereas in the military, medals are given to those who offer themselves for the greater good.
Sinek believes that the key to fostering a sense of trust and cooperation among workers is creating a “circle of safety” within the workplace. This means creating an environment where employees feel valued, supported, and protected, similar to how early humans lived in tribes for protection from danger.
He explains that this feeling of safety cannot be achieved through instruction alone. It is a feeling that must be nurtured through leadership that prioritises the well-being of its employees over profits or personal gain. When employees feel safe and trusted, they are more likely to cooperate and work together to achieve success, even in the face of outside threats.
Sinek gives examples of companies like Southwest Airlines and Next Jump, which prioritise their employees’ safety and well-being and have seen success. On the other hand, he highlights companies whose leaders prioritise profits over people, resulting in demoralised and uncooperative employees.
Sinek argues that leadership is a choice and that true leaders prioritise their employees’ safety and well-being above all else. By creating a circle of safety within the workplace, leaders can foster a sense of trust and cooperation that leads to success for everyone involved.
