The standards you walk past

I came across a powerful video this week. It is just 3 minutes long. I recommend you watch it!

In it, Australian Army Chief David Morrison faced the camera in 2013 to send a strong message: “Respect women or GET OUT!”

It followed a scandal involving Australian soldiers sending demeaning content through the defense system’s email networks.

I resonate and agree so much with his message.

I also think that his way of communication reflect 2 key style lessons for Leaders who command strong coaching skills.

#1 – a direct style

“The Standard You Walk Past Is the Standard You Accept”

What a powerful line.

Leader Coaches are not soft. They are direct AND caring. They address what needs to be addressed, in a respectful way. They know what is non-negotiable and they use clear, direct language to convey it unambiguously.

#2 – a concise style

Morrison expresses himself in a very sharp, direct and concise way. Pay attention to his words. He does not use unnecessary qualifiers (‘should’, ‘could’, ‘would’) to dilute his message.

I think it’s a hard skill to master: to be upset and angry, but to communicate it in a controlled, mature way.

I do agree that his style may be extreme to some, but we can learn well from the ends of the spectrum!

Have a great week ahead!