Employ and Instruct - Part 1: Leader
This is going to be a two-part edition. Employ and Instruct can teach us a lot, but it depends on which perspective we consider it from. The Leader, or the Follower. In this edition, I will endeavour to cover the Leader. In the next edition, the Follower.
Within our Masonic traditions, there are many guiding principle for leaders. The first we encounter in Freemasonry is encapsulated in the concept of "Employ and Instruct".
This phrase, steeped in symbolic meaning, has far-reaching implications beyond the world of Freemasonry, offering lessons for modern-day leaders in various settings, whether at work, at home, or in the pursuit of personal goals.
Leadership can be a tricky terrain to navigate. The challenge of motivating a team, making the right decisions, and guiding others towards a common goal can be overwhelming. Many leaders experience the 'pain' of unmet expectations, disengaged team members, and missed opportunities for growth. Even seasoned leaders can struggle with striking a balance between dictating and facilitating, managing and mentoring. And in this struggle, the essence of effective leadership can sometimes get lost.
Amidst these challenges, we need to refocus our attention on what truly matters in leadership. At its heart, leadership is not just about getting tasks done, but about how these tasks are assigned and executed, how team members are engaged, and how their skills and potential are developed. This brings us back to the principles of "Employ and Instruct", borrowed from the long-standing traditions of Freemasonry.
The concept of "Employ and Instruct" may seem foreign or even ancient to some, but the wisdom it holds has never been more relevant. Modern leaders face an ongoing battle for engagement, struggling to keep their teams motivated and productive amidst ever-changing environments and challenges. And this isn't just about work. It's about every aspect of our lives where leadership plays a role – in our homes, in our communities, and even in our personal projects. There's an increasing need for a leadership approach that doesn't just get things done, but also fosters learning, growth, and meaningful engagement.
The intrigue of "Employ and Instruct" lies in its simplicity and depth. It is a principle deeply embedded in the traditions of Freemasonry, where the term "Employ" signifies the act of engaging members in the work of The Craft, while "Instruct" refers to the role of imparting wisdom and guidance.
These words find their origins in Latin and Old French, adding a layer of historical richness. "Employ" comes from the Latin 'implicare', which means 'to involve', while "Instruct" is derived from the Latin 'instruere', meaning 'to build or teach'. Together, they encapsulate the essence of effective leadership – engaging and building others.
Imagine a future where leaders don't just assign tasks, but consciously 'employ' their team members in roles that suit their strengths, interests, and potentials. Where leaders don't just tell people what to do, but 'instruct', sharing their wisdom, providing guidance, and fostering an environment conducive to learning and growth. This isn't just a vision for better leadership, but a roadmap to a more engaged, productive, and fulfilled team.
Applying the principles of "Employ and Instruct" to leadership involves creating an environment that fosters engagement, growth, and mutual respect. Here are some practical steps you can take in a team scenario to embody these principles:
Understand Individual Strengths:
As a leader, invest time in understanding the unique skills, interests, and strengths of each team member. This allows you to 'employ' them in roles that they are well-suited for and in which they can contribute meaningfully.Delegate Wisely:
Based on your understanding of individual strengths, delegate tasks that challenge and engage each team member. Make sure everyone has a clear role and understands their responsibilities.Foster an Environment of Learning:
Encourage team members to learn, grow, and develop their skills. This could involve providing training, resources, or opportunities for professional development.Provide Clear Instruction and Guidance:
Make sure that your team understands their tasks and has the information they need to complete them. When new tasks or projects come up, provide clear, concise instructions and guidelines.Give Constructive Feedback:
Provide feedback that helps team members understand what they are doing well and where they could improve. Make sure your feedback is specific, constructive, and respectful.Be Open to Learning:
As a leader, it's important to be open to learning from your team as well. This could involve seeking feedback, being open to new ideas, or learning from the unique skills and experiences of your team members.Lead by Example:
Demonstrate the values and behaviors that you want your team to adopt. This includes showing commitment to your work, treating everyone with respect, and demonstrating a willingness to learn and adapt.Encourage Communication:
Foster an environment where open and respectful communication is valued. Encourage team members to share their ideas, concerns, and questions.
Leaders can become more effective by embodying these principles, becoming not just managers of people, but mentors, facilitators, and architects of positive, engaging environments. It's about seeing leadership not as a position of power, but as an opportunity to serve, to develop others, and to create something meaningful together.
The principles of "Employ and Instruct" might find their roots in Freemasonry, but their application spans far and wide. They provide a timeless guide to effective leadership, one that is relevant to leaders in all walks of life. By embracing these principles, we can navigate the challenges of leadership with greater confidence and purpose, shaping a more engaged, productive, and positive future for our teams.
So, whether you're a boss at a bustling office, a coach of a local footy team, or a parent guiding a family, remember: it's not just about getting the job done, but about how you engage and develop your team along the way. That's the true essence of "Employ and Instruct".