Leadership lessons from the Five-O

Leadership re[framed] —Vol. 04: Leadership x Law enforcement

This blogpost is part of the Leadership re[framed] publication.

In his article, “The Great Sergeant!” (NEIA Associates, January 1996), Edward J. Werder explores the critical role sergeants play in law enforcement and the qualities that define exceptional leadership at this level. While the focus might seem far removed from various professional realms, the lessons translate surprisingly well to many leadership contexts. Here’s how leaders in any field can leverage these insights to build high-performing teams.

Leading as a team shepherd

Just like police sergeants significantly impact officer development, leaders play a crucial role in shaping their team’s capabilities. By fostering a supportive environment and providing clear direction, leaders can empower their team members to excel. To implement this, consider conducting regular one-on-one meetings to provide personalised guidance and support. Establish mentorship programmes where experienced team members can share knowledge with newer colleagues, thereby fostering a culture of continuous learning and growth.

Building a strong foundation

Similar to the importance of a clearly defined role for police sergeants, leaders need to establish a well-articulated vision for their teams. This vision, along with clearly defined priorities, sets the direction and ensures everyone is working towards the same goals. Begin by hosting workshops or retreats to collaboratively develop a compelling vision statement. Follow up with regular team meetings to align ongoing projects with this vision and adjust priorities as needed to stay on track.

Recruiting the right talent

Just as selecting the right candidates is vital for police sergeants, leaders need to assemble a team with the necessary skills and experience. This goes beyond technical expertise — fostering a team with diverse perspectives and strong communication skills is crucial for creating well-rounded solutions. Engage in active recruitment strategies that prioritise diversity and inclusion. Implement comprehensive onboarding programmes that not only teach new hires about their roles but also integrate them into the team’s culture and values.

Bridging the gap between stakeholders and team members

Leaders, like police sergeants who bridge the gap between higher command and officers, need to effectively communicate the value of their team’s work to stakeholders. They also need to advocate for their team’s needs while navigating different priorities within the organisation. To achieve this, schedule regular stakeholder meetings to present updates and gather feedback. Create transparent communication channels where team members can voice concerns and suggestions, ensuring their perspectives are considered in decision-making processes.

Leading by example

Great police sergeants lead by example. Similarly, leaders should embody the qualities they seek in their team. This includes a deep understanding of their field, strong communication skills, and a commitment to continuous learning. Lead by participating in professional development opportunities and encouraging your team to do the same. Demonstrate integrity and accountability in all actions, showing that you uphold the same standards you expect from others.

Building a culture of excellence

Just as police sergeants can create a sense of duty and camaraderie in their teams, leaders can cultivate a positive and motivating work environment. This fosters collaboration, celebrates wins, and encourages continuous improvement. Organise team-building activities that promote trust and cooperation. Recognise and reward achievements regularly, creating a culture that values excellence and innovation. Encourage an open feedback loop where team members can share ideas for improvement and feel valued for their contributions.

Beyond the blue line

By incorporating these leadership lessons inspired by police sergeants, leaders in any field can enhance their effectiveness and inspire their teams. Whether fostering team development, establishing a clear vision, recruiting the right talent, bridging communication gaps, leading by example, or building a culture of excellence, these principles provide a solid foundation for exceptional leadership.

#leadership-re[framed] by Roman Schoeneboom offers valuable knowledge that extends beyond traditional design leadership. Articles in this publication explore unconventional areas and demonstrate how seemingly unrelated fields can provide crucial insights for emerging leaders.