Recently, I had the opportunity to introduce General Colin Powell at the annual Insurance Accounting & Systems Association conference, where he was the keynote speaker. In preparation, I researched the man and his life and came across a business book, The Powell Principles. Author Orin Harari, a professor of management at San Francisco University, had interviewed Powell and plucked from the interview a series of business concepts he felt translated well from the military to business. He put these principles in a pamphlet that I've found to be a nice front-line manager's handbook.

It got me thinking about the fundamentals of leadership that go beyond the boardroom and into the military and our own personal lives. There are basically 24 principles, and I landed on a few that seem universal. Keep in mind that these are the words of a four-star general: 1) Check your ego at the door; 2) Listen to the front lines; and 3) Make optimism a top priority.

Simple and straightforward? Yes, but it is also good advice when applied to the subject of change. Leaders must be able to admit they don't have all the answers, gather input from the front lines, and be willing to take chances. However, the principle that really struck me was General Powell's view on building consensus. He says seek it, but don't be ruled by it. It is a unique view and one worth pursuing.

He ties leadership with consensus building. Consensus is not discussing until everyone gives in a little to make everyone else comfortable, which is how many people interpret it. He communicates in clear terms the direction he wants to take, then enlists input from everyone to refine the approach. He listens and works to gain a commitment from everyone on reaching the goal. Gaining commitment from each person to support the ultimate goal is the objective. Modifications are fair game, but analysis paralysis and diluting a prime objective so everyone is happy with the solution is not leadership. Powell would see this as abdicating his responsibility as a leader. It is certainly an arguable position, but too often in business we put consensus ahead of the ultimate goal and our solutions fall short because we let go of the goal to keep the peace. I guess that is why one of Powell's other principles is "be prepared to piss people off." All in all, it is a great read from someone who has accomplished a lot. Get a copy, read it, and you may want to share the tips with your staff. At ease!

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