Some of the best leaders I know understand that leadership isn't a solo act. They understand the profound impact of surrounding themselves with diverse partners who bring complementary skills and knowledge. These leaders understand that they don’t have to be the sharpest tool in the shed and see the value of including other tools in their shed to get the job done.

What’s the result? A working environment of continuous learning, innovation and shared success.

Winner, winner chicken dinner. 

So, how’s it done? From my observations of working with leaders in corporate, government, and Defence it starts with checking your ego at the door and embracing the expertise of others. If you can do that (and let’s be real, not everyone can) here are seven tangible benefits:

1. Unleashing Diverse Perspectives:

A team comprising individuals from varied backgrounds and experiences enriches the collective viewpoint. This cognitive diversity transcends individual limitations, sparking innovative solutions and well-rounded decisions.

2. Embracing Lifelong Learning:

Partners with diverse expertise serve as perpetual sources of learning and intellectual growth. Remaining open to these varied perspectives keeps leaders adaptable and intellectually curious, equipping them to navigate an ever-changing world.

3. Delegating and Empowering:

Trusting in the expertise of others fosters collaboration. When leaders confidently delegate tasks to skilled partners, they empower team members, build trust, and cultivate a culture of ownership and accountability.

4. Fostering Healthy Challenge:

Constructive challenges among partners create a space for critical thinking and robust debate. This dynamic ensures thorough analysis, informed decision-making and shared responsibility for outcomes.

5. Building a Cohesive Unit:

True success emerges from collective effort. Leaders who prioritise assembling a strong, collaborative team leverage the unique strengths of each member. This nurturing environment fosters a sense of value and contribution, propelling shared goals forward.

6. Sparking Innovation:

If you can’t spark joy, then spark innovation. Diverse expertise ignites creativity and innovation. When minds from different domains collaborate, groundbreaking ideas emerge, propelling organisations toward excellence.

7. Navigating Change with Resilience:

Today’s world demands adaptability. Surrounding oneself with versatile partners enhances your organisation’s ability to navigate change and uncertainty, ensuring resilience in the face of challenges.