Leading from Behind NEVER works

At this point, you have probably seen the video of the events from the Trump rally in Pennsylvania.  It demonstrated how in crisis times that leaders can rise or fall to the occasion. During these times, Individuals look at leaders for hope and guidance. When a leadership vacuum occurs, then chaos can overtake the situation.  We saw two versions of leaders on display on that Saturday evening.

First, Donald Trump. After the bullet grazed him and not knowing how badly hit he was, he wanted to make sure he got a message to his supporters.  But, this is not the whole story.  The other part of the story is the lack of leadership from Kimberly Cheatle.  As the Secret Service Director, she is ultimately responsible for the safety of political figures. 

As the hours went by after the shooting, Kimberly Cheatle could not be found.  She would not answer questions nor address the situation. Now, several days later, the only thing that she has done is released a statement.  This is the classic example of leading from behind.  She should have gotten in front of the media and answered whatever questions she could. 

Not duck the media.  This is a lesson for you.  Whenever a crisis occurs, you must get ahead of the story.  Leading from behind and having the story control you will not go well for you as a leader.  When the rubber hits the road, where will you be as a leader?