The Ringmaster's Playbook: Leadership in Three Rings

Every circus has a ringmaster.
He stands in the center of the arena with three rings—or areas—surrounding him. In one ring, there could be lions. In another, trapeze artists. And in the third, the cast of characters from the traveling tent of entertainment.

The ringmaster’s job is to entertain the crowd and keep the show on pace. But he’s also there to keep everyone focused. He’ll point to certain acts so the audience doesn’t miss a heart-thrilling stunt, and his timing allows the performers to stay on schedule—for the circus is a show that requires precision.

Being a leader is much like being a ringmaster.

You’re in the center of the arena, surrounded by three areas of influence: your team, your customers, and your investors.

As the ringmaster, you must play to each one masterfully.

So, how does being a ringmaster illustrate leadership?

Like the ringmaster, you’re always on the stage. All eyes are on you. As the leader, you embody the mission and the vision of the organization—and it can’t just be a performance. It must be something you believe. This is something you eat, sleep, and breathe. Since all eyes are watching you, if they see you doubt or lose focus, you’ll soon realize the entire organization is off track.

Know your constituents. You must give time to the team, customers, and investors. You really can’t afford to ignore any of them. You’re having to play in all three of those rings so a masterful performance can be seen by the world—one that results in a successful business venture.

With the team, keep them encouraged, equipped, and focused. They need your guidance, coaching, and correction. Never forget that the people who work for you have placed their lives in your hands. Because of you, they can buy a home, put food on the table, have health insurance, and grow a family. Their plans will often ride on the company having a future. Keep them informed, and help them understand how their work fulfills the "why" of the organization.

Without customers, an organization would not exist. These people believe in you and your product enough that they’re willing to spend their money on your goods or services. They need your attention. When a customer complains, listen carefully. You’ll rarely hear from a happy customer—but always listen to one who has an issue. Correct the issue and make them happy. Super-serve your customers. Get to know them. Don’t treat them like a wallet. They’re people with wants, needs, dreams, and disappointments. Treat them with dignity and respect. Lean in and surpass their expectations—and they’ll return time and time again.

Your investors are a critical piece of the success you will experience. These individuals have planted seed money in your dream because they believed in you. That’s a tremendous honor—and an incredible burden. As the leader, your job is to reach profitability as soon as possible so you can return their investment and begin generating returns. When it comes to investors, never hide the truth. A balance sheet never lies. Be honest about sales, deposits, the pipeline, the hurdles you’re facing, changes in the team, and what’s happening in the industry. Investors are smart enough to know that not everything is roses—so be open about the thorns. Also, ask your investors for advice. It’ll help them own the process and be more patient as the dream unfolds.

Never forget: this is your circus.

Get in the center ring and start playing the part..

Command the ring. Your team, your customers, and your investors are already watching.

Intersecting life, luxury, and leadership,
Chris Adams

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