I recently attended a mesmerizing tango performance that conveyed a poignant three-part story of joy, heartbreak, and connection – all without uttering a single word. The dancers shared their emotions with every step. This gave the audience the opportunity to interpret the non-verbal communication and create their own story.
It dawned on me that leaders, too, could learn invaluable lessons from the art of tango and inspire their teams through actions rather than words. Consider this the “Dance of Leadership.”
In the realm of leadership, effective communication stands as the cornerstone of success. While words have their place, non-verbal cues and actions can often convey emotions and intentions more profoundly. Just as the tango dancers expressed their feelings through movement, a leader’s body language, facial expressions, and behaviors can significantly influence team morale and motivation.
Paying attention to non-verbal communication fosters an inclusive environment where every team member feels understood and valued. Empathy and emotional intelligence play pivotal roles in non-verbal leadership. Understanding and acknowledging the emotions of team members are crucial for building trust and cultivating a positive work culture. Leaders who can read subtle clues and respond with compassion forge unbreakable bonds. Research from Harvard Business Review https://hbr.org/ indicates that empathetic leaders not only boost employee engagement but also increase collaboration and productivity.
Drawing parallels to the tango’s passionate partnership, effective leadership hinges on unity and alignment within the team. Leading by example, and showing dedication, commitment, and enthusiasm inspires team members to follow. Employees are motivated when their leaders genuinely exhibit passion for their work and the organization’s mission. When leaders “take the lead” and show appreciation for hard work and achievement, the result is enhanced engagement and job satisfaction.
Inspiring leadership transcends leading from the front; it involves supporting and uplifting team members during difficult times. Just like the tango dancers who moved through heartbreak and struggle, leaders must display resilience and perseverance to navigate adversity. Being there for your teams during challenging moments while offering guidance and reassurance, creates a culture of support, teamwork, and a sense of belonging.
Leadership goes beyond words and embraces the power of non-verbal communication. Like the tango’s partnership that conveys a compelling story with every step, leaders can communicate effectively through their actions and behaviors. By nurturing empathy, fostering unity, providing unwavering support during difficult times, and celebrating successes, leaders create an environment where teams flourish and thrive.
In the dance of leadership, inspire, empower, and uplift others, communicating beyond words to leave a lasting impact on all those who follow your lead.
Life is like dancing. If we have a big floor, many people will dance. Some will get angry when the rhythm changes. But life is changing all the time. Don Miguel Ruiz
Glenna, this is quite perceptive. Expressions of empathy by leaders, including leading by example, do build commitment and loyalty by team members. An anecdote from my career: when I was a new partner in my BigLaw firm about 30 years ago, a rush project came in that required overnight work. While one of the senior associates working with me went home around dinner time, several junior/young associates stayed with me until 2 or 3 am to get the work done. I suppose I could have gone home to my family and been available by phone to answer questions. I felt, however, that if I expected my junior colleagues to work through the night, I needed to work alongside them. That night, as we were nearing completion of the work, one of the associates said to me, “[i]f I’m in a foxhole [in battle], I want you there with me. I know I can count on you.” The lesson is that, as in life, people don’t listen to what you say, they watch what you do — and how you do it. Exhibiting integrity and leadership invariably pays off.