The All Blacks: A Lesson in Leadership

Many people are fascinated by New Zealand for its natural beauty and unique culture. For me, it’s a personal issue because two of my favorite people live there: my daughter and granddaughter.

Also, while the country is special in many ways, I am intrigued by its national sport, rugby, and its amazing team known as the All Blacks. This team is one of the most successful professional sports teams in history and has been undefeated in over 75% of their international matches over the last 100 years. Recently, I reviewed James Kerr’s book, Legacy: What the All Blacks can teach us about the business of life and was reminded of some of the important leadership principles we discuss in our Emergent Leader workshop.   Here are three examples of key lessons we teach which are also reflected in the leadership of this famous rugby team.  

Leaders connect the team to a higher purpose. Knowing that humans seek personal purpose, effective leaders articulate how everyone contributes to the organization’s goal. The All Blacks use the term “Follow the Spearhead.” This phrase recognizes that spearhead has three tips and to be effective all its force must move in one direction. Not a single part of the spearhead can deviate from what bonds the team together or it goes off track and misses the target. Famously, they dig into their native Maori roots to perform a pre-game haka (an ancient ritual to call upon the strength of their ancestors) that helps define their culture and remind everyone who they are, why they are here and what they stand for.

Leaders develop others. In Emergent Leader we examine how to encourage others to grow and to build a learning environment where individuals can successfully take on personal responsibility. We know that leaders create other leaders by passing on responsibility, creating ownership, and sharing accountability. The All Blacks strive to inspire their individuals by empowering them with the success of the team. They say “pass the ball” so that others learn how to improve and thereby make the whole team stronger. The Maori term, “whanau” means “extended family” reminding the team that everyone works together, and no one is left behind.

Leaders know themselves and act authentically. Our workshop encourages leaders to get in touch with their values, strengths, and challenges. We urge leaders to examine their beliefs and to be honest with themselves and others. Effective leaders need to start with themselves and then create an environment that encourages honesty and integrity. This culture of authenticity is a big part of what makes the New Zealand team so strong. The All Blacks use language, vocabulary, and rituals to bind them together and remind themselves of their collective purpose. In the same way, inspiring leaders encourage authenticity by being role models first.

Good leadership is often just a reflection of doing the right thing. A concept that is simple, but not always easy. The All Blacks have a saying that reinforces that idea… “leave the jersey in a better place.” They believe their job is to represent all of those who came before them and all of those who will follow. As leaders, understanding this universal connection helps us create a better self, team, and organization.

Sue Easton has been an Organizational Development consultant since 1988 specializing in innovative workforce structures including virtual environments and self-directed work teams. Sue has served a client base including Fortune 500 Companies, non-profits, government, colleges and universities around the country. Sue was a professor at Rollins College for many years in Winter Park, FL where she served as Department Chair and taught courses in Organizational Communication. She has received several awards for excellence and innovation in teaching.