"Men wanted for hazardous journey. Small wages. Bitter cold. Long months of complete darkness. Constant danger. Safe return doubtful. Honour and recognition in case of success."
This ad in the Times of London has been widely attributed to Ernest Shackleton, but no one has found an original copy. However, we do know that that Shackleton received 5000 applications (including 3 women) in response to a letter he wrote to The Times on December 29, 1913 when looking for crew for the Endurance voyage. His reputation as an Antartic explorer was already established and there was no shortage of people who wanted to join him. His ship was aptly named, probably taken from his family motto, "By endurance we conquer."
His interview style was instinctive. He beleived that character and temperament were just as important as technical knowledge, and asked an applicant for the position of ship physician if he could sing. If you get a chance, read his biography, or one of the management and leadership texts that outline the expeditions.
"Optimism is true moral courage."
~Ernest Shackleton
Showing posts with label leadership. Show all posts
Showing posts with label leadership. Show all posts
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Friday, January 22, 2010
Into the Cold
My nephew Michael's decision to work in the extreme north has me thinking about weather and hardship. He is still enroute, having experienced travel delays already, but has made it as far as Iqaluit. It is dark and 40 below, and he still has two more flights before he gets to his new home.
Although it took place at the complete opposite end of the world, Ernest Shakelton's expedition to the South Pole is a classic lesson in leadership. He went into unknown areas, in extreme and heartbreaking conditions and was unable to reach his initial goals. However, he adapted, he revised his plans, he knew the strengths and weakness of his staff and made appropriate assignments. He knew the importance of morale and teamwork. Everyone survived incredible hardship and isolation, including more than a year of being stranded on ice. He was such a remarkable leader that some even signed on for another expedition later.
“Difficulties are just things to overcome, after all.”
~Ernest Shackleton quote
Although it took place at the complete opposite end of the world, Ernest Shakelton's expedition to the South Pole is a classic lesson in leadership. He went into unknown areas, in extreme and heartbreaking conditions and was unable to reach his initial goals. However, he adapted, he revised his plans, he knew the strengths and weakness of his staff and made appropriate assignments. He knew the importance of morale and teamwork. Everyone survived incredible hardship and isolation, including more than a year of being stranded on ice. He was such a remarkable leader that some even signed on for another expedition later.
“Difficulties are just things to overcome, after all.”
~Ernest Shackleton quote
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