The Leadership Moment by Michael Useem (1998) delves into the essence of leadership through the examination of nine real-world cases. Each of these cases encapsulates critical moments where leaders confronted pivotal challenges. Useem’s exploration reveals the importance of decision-making, ethical considerations, and strategic thinking in leadership roles. By dissecting these moments, he provides a robust framework for readers to enhance their own leadership capabilities.

Summary:
Eugene Kranz, the flight director for NASA’s Apollo 13 mission, faced a life-threatening crisis when an oxygen tank exploded, jeopardizing the mission and the lives of three astronauts. Kranz exemplified calm under pressure, decisive action, and a systematic approach to problem-solving.

Key Action:
– Maintain Composure Under Stress: Leaders must stay calm and composed during crises. Channeling urgency without panic helps maintain team morale and focus.
– Example: Kranz enforced the rule: “Failure is not an option,” encouraging his team to think creatively under pressure.

Summary:
Roy Vagelos, the CEO of Merck, decided to develop and distribute a treatment for river blindness, a debilitating disease affecting millions in the developing world. Despite the lack of immediate financial return, Vagelos prioritized humanitarian needs over profits.

Key Action:
– Prioritize Ethical Considerations: Leaders should consider the broader impact of their decisions on society, and not just the financial outcomes.
– Example: Vagelos committed to giving the drug away, which eventually led to significant goodwill and long-term benefits for Merck.

Summary:
Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain, a Union Army officer during the Civil War, displayed remarkable leadership at the Battle of Gettysburg by holding his position against formidable odds. His decisive actions became a turning point for the Union Army.

Key Action:
– Decisive Action in Crucial Moments: When under pressure, leaders need to make swift, informed decisions to inspire their teams and change the course of events.
– Example: Chamberlain ordered an unconventional bayonet charge when ammunition ran low, surprising and overcoming the Confederate forces.

Summary:
John Gutfreund was the CEO of Salomon Brothers during the bond trading scandal of the early 1990s. His mismanagement and delayed action in addressing the unethical practices led to significant financial and reputational damage to the firm.

Key Action:
– Uphold Integrity: Leaders must confront unethical behavior immediately and transparently to maintain organizational integrity.
– Example: Gutfreund’s initial failure to act decisively when informed about the illegal practices underscored the critical need for timely and ethical responses.

Summary:
Edgar “Ted” Smith, a former executive at General Mills, demonstrated the importance of aligning personal values with organizational goals. His strategic thinking and integrity helped navigate and resolve a contentious negotiation over a new production line.

Key Action:
– Align Values with Actions: Leaders should ensure their actions resonate with both their personal values and organizational goals to foster trust and commitment.
– Example: Smith’s transparent and consistent approach in negotiations showcased his commitment to fairness and trust.

Summary:
Nancy Barry’s leadership at Women’s World Banking exemplified innovation and empowerment through financial services for women entrepreneurs in developing countries. Her strategic vision expanded the organization’s reach and impact.

Key Action:
– Empower and Innovate: Leaders should seek innovative solutions that empower others, especially marginalized groups, to achieve sustainable growth.
– Example: Barry’s initiative to provide micro-loans to women demonstrated how innovation can drive social and economic empowerment.

Summary:
The Mann Gulch fire tragedy highlighted the importance of flexibility and adaptability in life-threatening situations. Crew leader Earl Callahan’s decisions under extreme conditions provided lessons in leadership and survival.

Key Action:
– Adaptability in Crisis: Leaders must be adaptable and open to changing strategies when faced with evolving threats or challenges.
– Example: Callahan’s attempt to create an escape fire to avoid being overrun by the main fire, though not entirely successful, showed innovative thinking in dire circumstances.

Summary:
Clifton Wharton transformed TIAA-CREF from a bureaucratic organization into a modern financial giant through strategic vision and systemic changes. His leadership emphasized clarity, communication, and gradual implementation.

Key Action:
– Transformational Leadership: Leaders should articulate a clear vision and implement systematic changes to guide organizations through transformation.
– Example: Wharton’s gradual but steady modernization efforts within TIAA-CREF reinforced the power of clear, communicative, and strategic leadership practices.

Summary:
As President of El Salvador, Alfredo Cristiani played a crucial role in negotiating peace during the Salvadoran Civil War. His pragmatic approach to leadership stressed dialogue, compromise, and the inclusion of diverse perspectives.

Key Action:
– Negotiation and Compromise: Effective leaders prioritize open dialogue and seek common ground to resolve conflicts and create sustainable solutions.
– Example: Cristiani’s success in brokering peace was due to his patient and inclusive negotiation tactics, bringing together warring factions to find a peaceful resolution.

The Leadership Moment underscores that leadership is not defined by position alone but by the actions taken in moments of crucial decision-making. Each story illustrates how great leaders faced immense challenges and what we can learn from their experiences.

By integrating these lessons, individuals can enhance their leadership capabilities and effectively navigate their own “leadership moments.”