Feature - Mark of a Leader: Selecting the Right Frame

By Timothy A.Edward

In the fast-paced world of leadership, where decisions are made under pressure and responsibilities weigh heavily, there exists a subtle yet powerful skill that sets exceptional leaders apart: the ability to put things in the right frame. It is a skill, an ability to create masterpieces. These metaphorical frames act as a lens through which leaders view challenges, opportunities, and their own actions.

Masterpiece Creator

The act of forming and shaping is inherent in leadership. Like a potter with clay, leaders mould their teams, organisations, and visions. They recognise that every individual carries unique potential waiting to be shaped into greatness.

When constructing iconic buildings, craftspeople and artisans collaborate, each contributing their expertise to create marvels of architecture. In the same manner, leaders must assemble diverse talents, align them toward a common goal, and create something greater than the sum of its parts.

Unity and Growth

Leaders foster unity by framing shared values, fostering collaboration, and celebrating diversity. They recognise that growth occurs within the framework of interconnected lives.

Each member is a vital organ, contributing to the whole. Leaders frame their teams as interconnected parts, emphasising collaboration over competition. They recognise that growth happens when every joint supplies what is needed.

Purpose and Creativity

Look at creation, which in itself is a masterpiece, a symphony of purpose and creativity. In the same breath, leaders, too, wield words as architects of reality. They frame visions, missions, and values, breathing life into the organisational culture. 

Purpose-driven leaders inspire others to see beyond the canvas and envision a masterpiece. For example, if we are involved in a community kitchen programme, we are not just giving away free meals, rather we are building a strong nation that would overcome any future challenges.  

The Art of Framing

Leaders are there to create spaces for inspiration, reflection, and communion. They frame meetings, conversations, and initiatives, infusing them with purpose and vision.

Since leaders, carry the weight of responsibility, the buck stops with them. In other words, the promise between vision and execution lies in their domain. Their decisions, framed by values and ethics, shape the destiny of all who believe in their leadership, includes their followers, employees, stakeholders and beneficiaries.

Positive Frame

Positive framing involves emphasising opportunities, solutions, and growth. Leaders who adopt this frame see setbacks as learning experiences, setbacks as stepping stones, and challenges as chances to innovate. By framing adversity as a catalyst for improvement, they inspire resilience and creativity in their teams.

Problem-Solving Frame

Effective leaders approach problems with a problem-solving frame. Instead of dwelling on obstacles, they focus on solutions. They ask questions like, “How can we overcome this?” or “What resources do we need?” By framing problems as puzzles waiting to be solved, leaders encourage collaboration and forward-thinking.

Ethical Frame

Ethical leaders view decisions through an ethical frame. They consider not only the immediate impact but also the long-term consequences. This frame ensures that actions are aligned with values, integrity, and the greater good. Leaders who consistently apply this frame build trust and inspire loyalty.

Framing in Action

Crisis Management

During a crisis, leaders must frame the situation appropriately. A positive frame acknowledges the severity of the crisis while emphasising resilience and unity. A problem-solving frame focuses on immediate actions and resource allocation. An ethical frame ensures decisions prioritise safety and well-being.

Communication

Leaders communicate through frames. When delivering tough news, they choose words carefully to soften the impact. When celebrating victories, they frame achievements as team efforts. Effective communication requires understanding the audience’s frame and adjusting accordingly.

Decision-Making

Leaders face complex decisions daily. By framing choices within a broader context, they consider organisational goals, stakeholder impact, and long-term effects, which in turn help them make informed choices. The frame guides them toward ethical, strategic, and sustainable decisions.

Strategies for Mastering Framing

1. Awareness: Leaders must recognise their default frames. Are they naturally positive, problem-solving, or ethical? Self-awareness allows intentional frame selection.
2. Empathy: Understand others’ frames. What motivates team members? How do stakeholders perceive the situation? Empathetic leaders adjust their communication to resonate with diverse frames.
3. Re-framing: When faced with adversity, leaders can re-frame challenges. Instead of seeing a setback, they see an opportunity for growth. Re-framing transforms obstacles into stepping stones.
4. Consistency: Leaders must align their actions with their chosen frame. Consistency builds trust and reinforces the desired perspective.

Conclusion

The essence of leadership is more like crafts skill, where decisions, interactions, and visions are meticulously framed. The mark of a great leader lies not only in their decisions but also in how they frame those decisions. By mastering the art of framing, leaders create a legacy, a frame that shapes their impact long after their tenure.

So, as you navigate your leadership journey, remember: the right frame can turn a blank canvas into a masterpiece. As you lead, also remember that you are crafting masterpieces. Select the right frame for each of them and frame them well, for within those borders lies the legacy you will leave behind.