NetFlix's House of Cards series chronicles the daily life of US Congressman Frank Underwood (played by the ever-effective Kevin Spacey).
Although it is a fictional story, the popularity that the character has gained reveals that it fits very well with the times we live in, more than ever focused on how to achieve success.
In the following lines an analysis of the leadership practices exercised by this character is attempted.
1. Clearly outline your goals and develop various strategies to achieve them
This is perhaps the quality that stands out the most in Underwood, his focus, his full concentration on what to get and his waste of creative resources to overcome obstacles. It is not that you always get what you set out to do, but your preparation and skills assure you success 75-80% of the time at least.
2. Try to stay well informed of your environment and those around you
In these times, information is a very valuable resource. Underwood knows that to maintain his position he must seize every opportunity that favors his plans and those of his allies.
3. Always be ready to negotiate
For this you must know your counterpart. Inquire about their needs and weaknesses. Likewise, you should know which of your resources you can sacrifice or share to achieve a mutually satisfactory or at least interesting agreement.
4. Make people around you feel good or who can be useful to you
Don't hesitate to comfort others if you think they need it. Or give them a reprimand if that will regain momentum. In addition, you have to be grateful and sometimes generous. Being generous to others makes it easier to get their help when needed.
5. Surround yourself with a good team
A leader has the quality or measure of the team he has recruited. To obtain great results you must be able to count on highly competent people.
6. Take adverse outcomes as learning opportunities
Analyze your performance in the face of ungrateful outcomes and seek to strengthen your weaknesses.
Naturally, Underwood's flaws are overlooked here. For example, her disregard for the law and ethics, along with her tendency to manipulate others.
The aforementioned practices, combined with a real humanistic and ethical sense, can elevate the management results of a leader or manager who aspires to be one.
