Our stereotypical picture of the alpha-male leader — the hero who unilaterally directs his troops to victory — has become obsolete. This model of leadership no longer works in today’s culture of diversity, inclusion and change.
Most likely, without some real adaptation in style, Vince Lombardi would not have succeeded in today’s NFL. Of course, being the great coach he was, and because winning was everything to him, he probably would have made the necessary adjustments for the sake of the W. For others, however, as they say of some coaches, the game has passed them by. What they are really saying, however, is that the culture has passed them by and they have failed to adapt to the changes in society. Today’s players (employees) require coaches (leaders) who both understand them and are willing to lead them within the confines of their cultural needs. This is why Phil Jackson was able to mold multiple-championship teams in both Chicago and Los Angeles. It wasn’t just talent he had on his teams that made his successful; it was his ability to manage the culture of his players — many of them with very inflated egos.