True Leaders Defend Their Teams, Argues Justin Wright

In a recent LinkedIn post, Justin Wright explores the critical role of defending one’s team as a cornerstone of effective leadership. Wright contrasts genuine leadership with mere management, emphasizing that a leader’s commitment to their people is paramount, especially when challenges arise.

Wright begins by recounting observations of leaders who fail to support their subordinates. He states unequivocally:

If you don’t defend your people, you don’t belong in leadership. Period.

This strong assertion sets the stage for his argument that a leader’s primary responsibility extends beyond task delegation to the development and protection of their team members. As Wright points out, true leaders understand that their success is intrinsically linked to their team’s achievements and growth.

The Essence of Defending Your Team

Wright clarifies that defending one’s team is not about avoiding accountability or lowering performance standards. Instead, he outlines several key actions that constitute genuine defense:

• Fighting for their professional growth.
• Protecting them from burnout.
• Shielding them from internal politics.
• Providing support without resorting to micromanagement.
• Acting as their advocate when they are not present.

These actions, according to Wright, are what build the trust necessary for a leader to truly lead. He elaborates on the impact of such leadership:

The best leader I ever had taught me this. When our team made mistakes, she’d say: ‘That’s on me. We’ll fix it.’ When we succeeded? ‘My team did all the work. I just cleared the path.’

This anecdote illustrates a leader taking responsibility for team failures while crediting the team for successes, a powerful way to foster loyalty and high performance.

Building Trust Through Unwavering Support

Wright contends that this supportive approach cultivates an environment where team members are motivated to give their best. He shares the outcome experienced under such leadership:

Know what happened? We gave everything for that team. Grew faster than ever. Achieved things we never thought possible. Because we knew she’d be there. Supporting. Defending. Believing.

This highlights the direct correlation between a leader’s willingness to defend their team and the team’s subsequent performance and commitment. Wright emphasizes that while managing tasks can be done by anyone, the development of people is the hallmark of a true leader.

The Lasting Impact of Leadership Choices

Concluding his post, Wright reiterates the significance of this leadership principle. He argues that the way leaders treat their teams is not only observed but remembered, influencing the team’s dedication and long-term engagement. As he puts it:

Anyone can manage tasks. Real leaders develop people. And you can’t develop what you don’t defend. So choose wisely. Your team is watching. And they’ll never forget.

Wright’s message serves as a call to action for current and aspiring leaders to recognize the profound impact of their actions in defending and supporting their teams, underscoring that this commitment is fundamental to building lasting success and fostering a culture of trust and high achievement.