Memorial Day is an important day for all Americans to remember and honor those who fought and died for our freedom. In cities and towns across the country this weekend, a variety of traditions will celebrate and honor this fact.
As a resident of Indianapolis, home of the Indianapolis 500, I love the rich history of traditions and rituals that are a part of the race festivities, including (but certainly not limited to):
- The cue “Stay Tuned to the Greatest Spectacle in Racing!”
- The driver introductions
- Honoring veterans
- The singing of Back Home Again in Indiana
- Proclaiming “Ladies and Gentlemen, start your engines!”
To some, those traditions mean nothing, to others, they mean everything.
The same is true within your organization.
As a leader, you must recognize the traditions that have meaning and purpose to your employees and honor them. While innovative leadership requires that you question the purpose of rituals to make sure they continue to make sense in the current climate, you cannot overlook the importance of traditions.
Traditions that have shared meaning should be extended, revered and consciously continued. Traditions or rituals that have run their course, show their age, or are no longer in line with the organization’s goals and intentions should be carefully laid to rest.
Both of those actions require careful, thoughtful action and effective leadership skills.
Over the next few weeks, make a list of the traditions that you can think of in your organization. This is also a good task to delegate to new employees as they will often notice things you take for granted or don’t even notice. Determine which serve the team well, and see how you can further promote them. Think of those traditions that need to be retired and begin thinking about and engaging others in determining how to make the retirement a positive one (Hint: Think about replacement, rather than removal).
Those are important leadership activities, even if they are often overlooked.
One last note, from our Bud to Boss family to yours, have a safe and memorable Memorial Day weekend!
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