My topic for the research writing is about Napoleon's leadership. He was one of the greatest and the most famous leaders in the world. This time, I would like to introduce some of common keypoints of leadership between Shackleton and Napoleon.
First, they were both good at motivating their subordinates. They made great speeches carefully choosing the right words. They kept calm, confident, and careful conditions no matter what happened. Napoleon often used the words "glory" and "victory" to make troops believe in a positive way.
They were both good at symbolizing. Shackleton threw away anything that was not needed for the survival to make the ship lighter. It made others to do so without hesitation. Napoleon introduced the decimal system to each region he conquers to show them as a symbol of freedom and new era. In the time of Napoleon, countries in Europe were using different mathematical unit, so it was difficult for them to communicate.
They also gave certain rewards to subordinates. Napoleon especially gave special status to the bravest men in battles. He removed the medal that is quite expensive from his uniform and attached to that man's. Shackleton also gave his foods to others though he didn't have much.
Though both Napoleon and Shackleton were great leaders, I don't get why Shackleton was not as famous as Napoleon. Or am I the only one who didn't know Shackleton before reading The Leadership at the Edge?
Hi, Mari!
返信削除Thank you for sharing your thought. Your post was really interesting that comparing Napoleon and Shackleton emphasizes essential elements of good leadership. I recognize that Napoleon was famous for his strategy of giving great speech as you mentioned. As well as Shackleton, good leaders know “right” words, time, manner to present good speaches. (Can we reach that standard by practicing?) I did not know Napoleon used effective symbolism to gather people’s unity, so it was r impressive to know. I think Symbolism will be a root of strong unity especially when the situation is about life and death.
I agree with you that Shackleton should be more famous and rewarded for his great leadership skills.
Thank you for sharing nice thought!