Having been a New York Jets fan since the days of Joe Namath, I couldn’t help but observe, compare and contrast the leadership of “Joe Willie” and Mark Sanchez.  Joe Namath was a colorful charismatic leader who vaulted the Jets into the limelight and brought credibility to the AFL.  His style was brash and, as mentioned by many sports writers, he became the playboy of football, quickly earning him the moniker of Broadway Joe.  What he did was guarantee a Super Bowl victory, and he delivered it in Super Bowl III in which he masterfully lead the Jets  http://www.profootballhof.com/hof/member.aspx?player_id=161. Mark Sanchez is now the current leader of the New York Jets.

The Jets of today is a team which requires a different type of leadership.  With today’s technology and communications wizardry, everyone from the team reads, hears and observes what their leaders say and how they deliver.  Lets look at the observable characteristics of Mark.  While executing his strategy, cameras are whirling above his head, up and down the field, recording every moment, every nuance, every facial expression.  Immediately these are observed by fans, and not surprisingly, the team.  Their gazes shift to the jumbo screens where they get immediate feedback on performance and results.  The other feedback they receive is their own perception on the confidence of their leader.  The visuals are interpreted by the players/followers on how well the team leader, the quarterback, thinks they are doing.

Right or wrong, the actions of Sanchez send a strong message.  His behavior influences the team more than he might have realized.  I had read somewhere that Sanchez even had a behavior coach give him feedback about his actions on the field.  One could easily see how well the team was doing by simply watching Mark.  Was he sitting on the bench?  Was he slumped over looking at the last plays?  Was he taking his time getting back on the field of play?  Was he smiling?  Was he animated?  Was he sending a visual message of confidence that they could win?  The perceptions of the team was their reality of how they thought he felt and how well they were performing.  Clearly, if they perceived their leader had no confidence, it reflected in the results of the team.

How does this apply to leadership in the Boardroom?  The message is clear.  As leaders, actions can speak louder than words.  Over 50 years ago, John F. Kennedy’s actions spoke volumes.  Even when he took the podium he broke tradition and didn’t wear his top hat.  A small gesture, but clearly America was destined for change.  He committed we would land on the moon when no technolgy was even available at that time to complete the mission.  We all know the results of that commitment.  He displayed charisma and in the words of James E. Dyer of the Danbury News Times, “It was a ‘Time for Greatness’.  Also stated by Burton W. Peretti, “His example reminds us that positive developments in America remain available for enterprising leaders to promote as we approach future ‘new frontiers’”.

And, we are approaching them very quickly.  Reference Bill Gates.  I had read that Bill Gates, in his early years, would answer customer demands with, “We can do that”, even if he did not have the program readily available.  The net result was, he did and we all know the results of his commitment and confidence.  But also think about the essences of his leadership and the people who followed him.  Steve Jobs and Apple…immediately your mind conjures up images of Steve and the vision he has for his company, of greatness for his employees.

So you see, leadership is not a cut and dry operation.  Its not about applying the right style for the situation.  Great leadership is about outwardly displaying in actions, in behaviors, in values, in vision, where and how you will lead and having your followers want to follow.  Its about instilling the will and drive of others to help reach the pinnacle of success.  Its simply, living the dream, showing the commitment, creating a sense of urgency, and being there in the moment.  It takes you, the leader, to do that.  Are you up to it?  If you are, share the vision, have the courage, take giant leaps to grow and commit to be the best leader you are able.

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About the author

Peter Samardak