HBR IdeaCast The 3 Types of Leaders of Innovative Companies
Jul 9, 2019
Deborah Ancona, a professor at MIT Sloan, and Kate Isaacs, a research fellow, delve into leadership styles that fuel innovation. They discuss the need for a shift away from command-and-control cultures and introduce three essential leader types: entrepreneurial, enabling, and architecting. These roles create a harmonious balance, allowing for creativity without chaos. They also highlight how fostering a growth mindset and granting employees autonomy can lead to greater innovation, supported by real-world examples from companies like Xerox and ING Bank.
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Company Selection Rationale
- Ancona and Isaacs chose PARC and W.L. Gore & Associates for their research due to their innovative nature and established history.
- These companies, unlike startups, offered a proven model of distributed leadership.
Gore's Energetic Atmosphere
- In contrast to disengaged employees at other companies, Gore's employees exhibited excitement and energy.
- They constantly developed new ideas and business models, showcasing a vibrant work environment.
The Secret Sauce of Nimble Leadership
- Nimble organizations empower employees to lead in their areas of expertise.
- The combination of individual leadership, strong culture, and structure drives success.