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Naked Leader Week 351 – 22 March 2010

Time to read: 3 minutes

Once, The world’s favourite airline

Every dispute is resolvable, providing the two (or more) parties involved agree on one fundamental principle – that the importance of resolving it is more important than anything else.

British Airways – and when I say British Airways I mean everyone involved in the company – at a time when air travel volume is at its lowest, and industry competition at its highest, have gone on strike.

There will be only one of two possible conclusions to this dispute – either the strike will end, somehow, or it won’t, and the company will die.

So, given that such a company cannot cease to exist, let’s see some real leadership from both key influencers in this.

From you, Willie Walsh, CEO – come on, you have to address the aggressive management style that that are very unhelpful, out of date and need sorting. Yes, there are tough decisions that have to be made, everyone knows that, the issue here is not the decisions themselves, but how those decisions are made, communicated and carried through. Action for everyone – when you have to make a major change in your company, invite as many people as possible to suggest what needs to be done, and how.

Equally from you, Unite co-leader Tony Woodley – come on, put your personal agenda and ambitions to one side and be absolutely clear and consistent about what you want, not what you don’t. It would also be helpful if your team could keep what’s private, private. And stop intimidating those who want to work; you have enough support to take some leadership. You know the whole country is watching you Tony, so call Willie Walsh and meet him privately, in a secret location, and take the lead in getting this sorted.

The livelihood of thousands of families depends on what you, Willie and what you Tony, do next.

Just, please, do it now.

With best wishes

David

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PS Who has the bigger leadership role to play in resolving this dispute – Willie Walsh or Tony Woodley?