I may be five years late to Clarkson’s Farm, which is especially remiss given that Diddly Squat is almost on my Cotswold doorstep. Having now completed Series One, I understand why it has attracted such affection. When the farmer who had worked the land retired in 2019, Jeremy Clarkson decided to run the farm himself. He brought confidence, curiosity, resources and enthusiasm, but very little knowledge of farming. What follows is funny, informative and unexpectedly moving. It is also a revealing study of leadership: Clarkson owns the farm and sets the direction, but progress depends upon his willingness to rely on people who know far more than he does. Here are six ways to lead when you know diddly squat:
-
Admit what you do not know.
Authority is not expertise. Owning the farm no more makes Clarkson the best farmer than occupying the most senior position automatically makes someone the best leader.
-
Put expertise before status.
Kaleb Cooper is considerably younger and less famous, but he understands the land, machinery and practical realities. The right answer matters more than who provides it.
-
Encourage challenge.
Kaleb never hesitates to tell Clarkson when he is wrong. Every leader needs people who can speak plainly without fear.
-
Listen to uncomfortable truths.
Charlie Ireland brings the unwelcome figures, rules and commercial realities. Good advice is not always agreeable, but it is usually valuable.
-
Learn through action.
Clarkson asks questions, experiments, makes mistakes and adapts. Leadership is rarely mastered from the sidelines.
-
Measure more than money.
After a year of work, the farm produced a profit of just £144. Financially, the result was diddly squat. The knowledge, resilience and respect gained were worth considerably more. If you know diddly squat, make sure your team does not.
The above leadership tip...
was sent in response to a question from a participant on our acclaimed 10/10 leadership development and mentoring programme. Whether you're a first time manager or an experienced leader, straightforward, practical advice on best practice is hard to find. Until now. To find out how you, your team or your organisation can benefit, please contact us.
William Montgomery, our Founder and CEO, is available as a keynote speaker and event host. His experience as a speaker encompasses a wide number of audiences on a diverse array of subjects. He is also a volunteer for Speakers for Schools and Inspiring the Future.