Leadership Inspired by the Wolf Pack
Dear Members,
As we approach this pivotal moment, I am reminded of the strength and unity of a wolf pack. In the wild, wolves travel in packs. It is a common myth that alpha males are the dominant leaders of their packs. The reality is far more inspiring.
‘Seasoned leaders of wolf packs survey from near the back of the pack when traveling, rather than taking the lead position. Also, in times of scarcity, the leaders allow the young to eat first, rather than feeding themselves first. There is an absence of reports of wolves seeking high positions over the pack, no signs of a leader rousting a subordinate from a desired resting place, and an alpha wolf rarely initiates dominant behaviors. The experts who study wolf behavior describe the role of the wolf leaders as parents— guiding, teaching, and caring for their pack members. When the wolf offspring mature, they do not compete to overthrow the pack leader; instead, they leave the pack, find a mate, and start a family of their own. A family model better describes wolf-wolf relationships than a competitive hierarchy model.’
The function of leadership is to produce more leaders, not followers, to guide and teach upcoming leaders to prepare them for their own futures. I aim to empower each team member to take on leadership roles, to think critically, and to contribute to the team's success. My vision for creating a solid team includes Empowerment, Inclusion, Solidarity, Communication, and Fiscal Responsibility.
Empowering Leadership
Imagine a team where everyone is a leader, not just a follower. Each of you has unique strengths and perspectives essential to our success. I envision a team where everyone feels empowered to take initiative, think critically, and contribute boldly to our shared goals. By fostering an environment of empowerment, we can achieve extraordinary things together.
Inclusion as Our Strength
Inclusion is the heartbeat of my vision. Picture a team where every individual feels valued, respected, and heard. Our diverse perspectives will drive innovation and creativity, making us stronger and more adaptable. Together, we will cultivate an inclusive culture where everyone can flourish and shine.
Unwavering Solidarity
Unity is our greatest strength. I see a team where we support each other unconditionally, celebrate our victories, and stand together through every challenge. Our unwavering solidarity will be our greatest asset, enabling us to overcome any obstacle and achieve greatness.
Open and Honest Communication
Effective communication is the bedrock of my vision for our team. I am committed to creating an environment where open, honest, and transparent communication is the norm. By listening with empathy and speaking with clarity, we will build trust and foster collaboration, ensuring that everyone feels informed and engaged.
Fiscal Responsibility for Sustainable Growth
Responsible financial management is crucial for our long-term success. My vision includes making prudent decisions that maximize our resources and ensure sustainable growth. Together, we will build a financially robust team capable of achieving our most ambitious goals.
Authenticity and Integrity
Authentic leadership begins with authenticity. I promise to lead with honesty and integrity, face difficult conversations head-on, and speak truth to power. By being authentic, we will build a culture of trust and respect where every team member feels safe to be their authentic self.
Emotional Intelligence for Stronger Connections
Understanding and managing our emotions is key to building a cohesive team. My vision is to nurture a culture of empathy and approachability, where everyone feels comfortable giving and receiving honest feedback. Through emotional intelligence, we will strengthen our connections and enhance our collective resilience.
Accountability and Transparency
Accountability is essential for our success. As a leader, I am quick to acknowledge my failures with transparency, not excuses. I recognize and praise the accomplishments of others and accept all shortcomings as my own. I have not, and will not, allow the Agency to complain to me when they don't like a representative or the actions they've taken in furtherance of our Union's mission. Whatever conflicts or disagreements exist within our Region, stay in our Region. We must remain united in solidarity and never give the Agency the leverage to divide us. As Don Corleone once said, "Never tell anyone outside the Family what you are thinking."
By being transparent and accountable, we will build a culture of trust and reliability that will propel us forward.
Collaboration as Our Core Principle
Collaboration is the lifeblood of our success. I see a team where every contribution is valued, and we work together seamlessly towards our shared objectives. We will unlock our collective potential and drive innovation to new heights by fostering a collaborative environment.
Consistent and Thoughtful Decision-Making
Consistency and thoughtfulness in our decision-making processes are vital. My vision includes gathering the best information, considering the impact on all members, and aligning our decisions with our core values. This approach will ensure that our actions are strategic and effective.
Deference to Expertise
The RVP's roles and responsibilities include managing Region IV's affairs, administrating and enforcing the Contract for all job series in our bargaining unit, and finding a great member to serve as an SME and represent the Union in workgroups.
Recognizing and leveraging the expertise within our team is key to our success. I envision a culture where we defer to each other’s strengths and collaborate to find the best solutions. By valuing and utilizing our collective expertise, we will achieve remarkable results.
Building Trust
Trust is the cornerstone of leadership, and my vision for our team. It is hard-earned, quickly lost, and deeply valued. With trust, we will face challenges boldly and reach new heights together, creating a legacy of excellence. I want to earn your trust through my words and actions and be held accountable by our team through open communication.
Conclusion
By embracing these principles, we will inspire and motivate each other to reach our full potential. This is my vision for us: a team built on empowerment, inclusion, solidarity, communication, and fiscal responsibility. Together, we will lead with courage, act with integrity, and strive for greatness in all we do. Our future is bright, and I am honored to lead us on this journey. Let us rise together and create a legacy of unparalleled success and unity. Vote for a future where we all thrive, as strong and united as a wolf pack.
TL:DR
Empowering Leadership: Foster a team of leaders, encouraging initiative and critical thinking.
Inclusion as Our Strength: Value and respect diverse perspectives to drive innovation and creativity.
Unwavering Solidarity: Support each other unconditionally, celebrating victories and facing challenges together.
Open and Honest Communication: Build trust through transparent, empathetic, and clear communication.
Fiscal Responsibility: Make prudent financial decisions for sustainable growth.
Authenticity and Integrity: Lead with honesty and authenticity to build a culture of trust.
Emotional Intelligence: Cultivate empathy and approachability to strengthen team connections.
Accountability and Transparency: Celebrate achievements, learn from mistakes, and strive for excellence.
Collaboration: Value every contribution and work seamlessly towards shared goals.
Consistent and Thoughtful Decision-Making: Ensure strategic and effective actions are aligned with core values.
Deference to Expertise: Recognize and leverage team strengths for the best solutions.
Building Trust: Form a strong foundation of trust to face challenges boldly and achieve excellence.
Conclusion: By embracing these principles, we will create a united, successful, and empowered team. Vote for a future where we all thrive together, as strong and united as a wolf pack.
In Solidarity,
Mary Alice Oaks
