Leading a digital project? 'Think like a farmer'
Why leadership sometimes looks more like farming than management
Libraries' worth has already been written about leadership. Yet it remains a topic that stays constantly relevant, especially within digital transformations, where the pace of change is high and the pressure to perform is often even higher. In that kind of context, we expect quick results, immediate impact and instant growth. But what if, as a leader, you thought and acted more like a farmer?
You can't force growth
What do fields and algorithms have in common? More than you might think at first glance. Just like in farming, successful leadership in digital projects is about patience, timing, care and understanding that development takes time. You can create the right conditions, provide direction and remove obstacles. But you can't force growth.
Don't shout at the crops
Approach challenges and difficulties calmly and thoughtfully. Pressure and frustration rarely lead to better performance. A leader creates calm, helps set priorities and makes it safe to talk about problems.
Don't blame the crops for not growing fast enough
Success or failure is the responsibility of the whole team, including the team leader. When results don't materialise, it's important to look at which conditions, expectations or support may be missing.
Don't uproot crops before they've had the chance to grow and mature
Give team members the chance and the time to develop and grow into their role. New responsibilities, systems and ways of working require practice, feedback and trust.
Choose the best plants for the soil
Take into account the skills, experience and personality of potential team members. Not everyone fits every role or project context. A strong team emerges when people align with both the goals and each other.
Irrigate and fertilise
Your team needs support, both in terms of training and development and in terms of physical and digital tools. Don't expect growth without investing in knowledge, time, coaching and the right tools.
Remove weeds
Tackle problems and blockages proactively. Don't wait for unclear responsibilities, conflicts or technical issues to escalate and slow down the entire project.
Remember you will have good and bad seasons
Think long-term and recognise that every project has its ups and downs. You can't control the weather, but you can prepare your team, organise with agility, and make sure setbacks don't bring everything to a standstill.
Leadership creates the conditions for growth
Good leaders don't force results. They provide direction, ensure the right support and help their team grow sustainably.
What does that mean for digital projects?
Digital projects often ask a lot of employees. They need to learn new systems, rethink processes and, at the same time, keep day-to-day operations running smoothly. In that context, leadership makes the difference between imposing change and enabling change.
By setting realistic expectations, making room for learning and resolving problems in time, you build a team that not only performs, but also stays resilient.
People are not machines
Don't treat your team like a machine that needs to run faster, but like an environment where people need time, direction and support to grow.