A recent article in Wired magazine presents intriguing photographs of cockpits from various high-speed, high-performance vehicles. These images reveal a fascinating array of knobs, dials, and controls. Among the most captivating is the captain’s station of the Oasis of the Seas, the world’s longest cruise ship. According to the article, the port and starboard command chairs are equipped with built-in joysticks for ship control, typically operated by other officers.
Interestingly, the captain’s primary role is not to steer the ship at all. This revelation challenges the common metaphor where leaders are often likened to ‘captains steering the ship.’ Countless times, CEOs of troubled companies are described as needing to “turn the ship around,” or articles speak of staff “going overboard after their captain.” However, it turns out that captains don't actually steer their ships. So, what do they do?
The captain’s job, as described by the captain of the Oasis of the Seas, focuses on “mentoring and teaching.” He empowers the steering of the ship by coaching his staff to perform their duties effectively. Instead of personally handling the ship’s operations, he manages and guides his team. This approach is emblematic of how the best leaders handle the largest ships in the world—not by directly controlling the vessel themselves, but by fostering empowerment within their teams.
Leaders who empower their direct reports to successfully steer the ship cultivate highly productive teams. By delegating control and responsibility, these leaders enable their team members to develop skills and confidence, leading to a more dynamic and capable crew. The captain’s role thus becomes one of strategic oversight and mentorship, ensuring that the team is well-equipped to handle any challenges that arise. This leadership style not only enhances team performance but also fosters a culture of trust and growth within the organization.
In conclusion, the concept of empowerment in leadership extends beyond the maritime world and is a powerful approach in any organizational context. By shifting focus from direct control to mentorship and empowerment, leaders can inspire their teams to achieve greater success and navigate the complexities of their respective fields with confidence and competence. This modern take on leadership highlights the importance of developing others and underscores the significant impact of empowering team members to take the helm.