The death of Queen Elizabeth II last week has caused many of us to stop and reflect, as we tend to do at the end of an era. She was not only the only monarch that we have known, but for many of us the only monarch our parents remember. As several commentators put it, she was not just a queen, she was the Queen.
Even today, a 25-year old woman might need to work hard to establish her credibility if suddenly placed in a significant role. In post-war Britain, as women were being expected to return to their roles in the home, for a young woman to assume a global role and gain the respect of world leaders was truly extraordinary. To maintain that leadership role for 70 years is remarkable.
It is interesting that some commentators, in sharing their reflections, make a distinction between the monarchy and Queen Elizabeth II. Even those who may question the role of the monarchy, rarely question the respect shown to the Queen. Whatever people’s views on how she came to her position or their thoughts on the future, there is respect for the leadership she showed over seven decades.
Reflecting on her leadership, there are a few key themes which stand out.
Do your homework
Those who worked closely with the Queen, including the succession of 15 prime ministers all commented on how knowledgeable she was and said how much they valued their conversations with her. Towards the end of her life she brought with her a wealth of experience, but she also worked hard to be well-informed and up-to-date. She committed herself to always doing her best and worked hard to prove her worth. Doing your homework shows that you respect your colleagues and ensures you have a sound understanding of current issues. No doubt the Queen had advisors who supported her in this – good practice for all of us.
Take an interest
Numerous commentators in the last week have shared examples of the Queen’s ability to greet people with thoughtful comments and pertinent questions about them, their role or their country. We may not face the challenge of meeting a room full of world leaders, but we all understand how it feels when someone takes the time to be interested. Remembering the names of someone’s partner or children, checking in with someone who has taken on a new role, providing positive feedback – small details can make a big difference to how it feels to be part of a team.
Remember the power of coaching
Last Sunday, Laura Kuenssberg interviewed three former prime ministers about their experiences with the Queen – Gordon Brown, David Cameron and Theresa May. She asked each of them whether they had ever changed their mind as a result of a conversation with the Queen. Their response was interesting. Each of them hesitated and had to think about the answer. Whilst all stressed the confidentiality of their conversations, they shared a similar experience – she was knowledgeable, she asked great questions, she helped them to identify areas that needed more attention, she clarified their thinking. She didn’t give advice, but… In short, she was a great coach. Having a great coach helps you to reflect on your decision making and provides a safe space to test ideas. It reminds us that great leadership is not always about giving instruction and can be as much about empowering others.
Be visible
Over the years, when the Queen was asked about her preference for brightly coloured clothes, she often replied that it was simply so she could be seen. She understood that people came out to see her and that spotting a figure in a crowd is not always easy. Whilst it is unlikely that people will be travelling to catch a glimpse of us, we should not underestimate the importance of being visible. It shows we are interested, it shows that we are alongside our teams and it is an invaluable way of keeping informed about what is happening.
Stand up when things are difficult
Many of us will remember the backlash that the Queen experienced in the aftermath of Diana, Princess of Wales’s death. The criticism was personal – a feeling that the Queen didn’t care enough, was not visible enough. Many leaders will have experience of the moments when your approach does not resonate with the team, or you find that you have misread the room. Many leaders will also have faced the challenge of setting aside their own feelings in difficult times in order to support others. When times are tough, leadership is often about providing a steadying hand and a reassuring presence even when you are struggling yourself. It can also mean being willing to take advice, to change tack and at times admit that you got it wrong.
Champion inclusion and diversity
The role of the commonwealth attracts some controversy and debate. However, it is clear that over many decades the Queen aimed to develop understanding and build bridges. This was seen very notably in Ireland. She aimed to encourage better understanding of different countries, cultures and religions. She travelled extensively, building relationships and mutual understanding. Whilst she was the head of the Church of England, she nonetheless championed respect for all faiths. As we seek to build harmonious communities, we can all try to better understand and respect everyone that we work with.
Remember the value of service and duty
The Queen frequently talked about her role in terms of serving others. In her coronation speech in 1953 she said “Throughout all my life and with all my heart I shall strive to be worthy of your trust.” Whilst having been placed in a position of extraordinary privilege, she chose to position herself as the servant of her people rather than their leader. She knew that respect needed to be earned, no matter your role and that you need to keep focused on your core purpose and principles.
We know that we will not see a leader like her on the throne again in our lifetimes; we may not see another leader like her in any context. Simon Armitage’s beautiful poem Floral Tribute references “a silent bell disguising a singular voice” – her voice was heard and felt even when protocol did not permit her to speak freely. We will miss her. But like all great leaders her influence will be felt long beyond her lifetime, in all those who have learnt from her.
