It’s been a busy start to springtime, kicking off with our latest edition of Know the Score®. It never ceases to amaze me how much can be learned about leadership from an orchestra. Every time, I come away with a new insight.
This time was no different. As conductor, Stephen Bell led one of our sessions, he shared an insight he’d gained from leading orchestras over the years. He told us:
“Smile at the orchestra, then the music will smile back at you”.
The New York Times recently published an article about research which shows, even when you’re in a bad mood, if you smile or fake a pleasant demeanour, you’re more likely to then feel happier and be more pleasant. The faking turns to truth.
As leaders in business, there’s a lot to be said about being positive in order to get positive results. Not faking to the point of dishonesty, of course! But perhaps to be more mindful about the impact our demeanour as leaders can have on the people we lead.
A frown of disapproval doesn’t inspire musicians to play the best they can, and won’t encourage your teams to perform to their utmost. But a smile, words of recognition, an appreciative glance, all can inspire huge change.
Smile, and the music will smile back at you.