Do you know who can teach us valuable business lessons in the 21st century? No, it’s not a tech giant, not an influential entrepreneur, but Genghis Khan, the 13th-century Mongolian leader.
In the riveting read, “Genghis Khan and the Making of the Modern World,” author Jack Weatherford presents Khan’s unparalleled leadership style that forever transformed global civilization. His success, sustained over decades, offers an unexpected yet rich treasure trove of business lessons that we, as modern executives and entrepreneurs, can leverage for our enterprises.
1. Embrace Adaptability
The first lesson Khan teaches us is the power of adaptability. His ability to absorb, imitate, and enhance the best strategies of his enemies was unprecedented. Instead of rejecting foreign methods, he embraced them wholeheartedly, and therein lay his strength.
In our rapidly evolving business landscape, this strategy is even more relevant. Constantly adapting, learning, and incorporating new technologies, strategies, or work practices can keep our businesses ahead of the curve.
2. Evaluate Talent and Position Rightly
Khan’s unique talent-assessment ability was the secret ingredient to his enduring success. He assigned tasks based on merit and skill rather than genealogy, proving that the right person in the right role can fuel extraordinary results.
This ethos aligns perfectly with Ben Horowitz’s insights in his book, “The Hard Thing about Hard Things.” Scaling your business often necessitates making difficult personnel changes. By prioritizing skills over loyalty, you can position your business for sustained success.
3. Break the Cycle – Do the Unexpected
Khan understood the power of breaking the cycle and doing the unexpected. He broke customary norms to unite the Mongol tribes and end ceaseless warfare, setting a powerful precedent.
In business, we often fall into routines, stuck in the ‘how we’ve always done it’ mindset. To break free, we need to do the unexpected, step out of our comfort zones, and reevaluate old processes with fresh perspectives.
4. Foster a Strong Culture
Khan’s vision of uniting the Mongol tribes wasn’t just a lofty dream; it was the foundation of his tribe’s culture. He communicated a clear message of loyalty and consequence that instilled a sense of shared mission among his followers.
In businesses, a strong, clear, and communicated culture can simplify operations. When employees understand and embrace the company’s vision and mission, they instinctively know how to behave or act in various situations, reducing the need for exhaustive rules.
5. Run Lean for Efficiency
Lastly, Khan demonstrated the power of running lean. His minimalist approach enabled his army to move faster and be more efficient. In business, this translates to cutting unnecessary expenses and focusing on efficiency. A lean business can pivot and adapt quicker, providing a critical competitive advantage.
In conclusion, Genghis Khan’s leadership offers a wealth of insights applicable in our modern business landscape. Embracing adaptability, rightly positioning talent, doing the unexpected, fostering a strong culture, and running lean are key takeaways that can transform your business.
Before you go, have you integrated any of these lessons into your business strategy? Let’s continue the conversation in the comments below.
For more fascinating insights into the intersection of history and business, be sure to grab a copy of “Genghis Khan and the Making of the Modern World” by Jack Weatherford. It’s a must-read that’s certain to stimulate a fresh perspective on leadership and business growth.