From the boat house to the board room: The common ground of great CEOs and elite rowers

Rowing is not just a recreational activity; it is a team sport that requires coordination, balance, and skill. Rowers must work together effectively to move the boat forward, no matter what weather or season. As a CEO, leadig a company is a lot like rowing in a boat. Both are responsible for directing the team towards their destination, whether it’s a prosperous future or a serene trip on the water. To succeed in either role, there are certain skills and attitudes that must be applied consistently.

In this article, we’ll explore what great CEO’s have in common with rowing in a boat.

STEERING

Just as the rower is the one who is physically in charge of moving the boat, the CEO is the one who is charged with the most responsibility for the company’s success. CEOs must be able to make decisions that will steer their team in the right direction, knowing that the consequences of those decisions will ultimately rest on their shoulders. CEO is the one ready to work relentlessly at all times!

DECISION-MAKING

In rowing, sitting backwards may seem counterintuitive to going forward, but it is necessary for the rowers to navigate through the water. Similarly, in business, sometimes to move forward, you must more rely on your intuition and sometimes to even move backward. As a CEO, you must have the ability to listen to your heart or take a step back and evaluate the situation before moving ahead. This may mean re-evaluating your strategy, reassessing your team members, or making difficult decisions, all in the interest of moving forward in the most effective way.

FORECASTING

When rowing, no matter what the weather or season is, it is the responsibility of the rowers to provide a peaceful journey. In business, it is the same. As a CEO, you must be able to accurately forecast changes in the market, anticipate demand for your product or service, and be able to pivot your strategy to ensure your company’s survival and growth. You must be able to anticipate the changing tides and be prepared to navigate through them successfully. 

PARTNERHIPS

Rowing with a partner is more difficult than rowing alone. It requires coordination, communication, and trust. In the same way, leading a company does not have to be a lonely pursuit. Surrounding yourself with the right team of individuals who share your vision, understand your goals, and are committed to your success is essential. As a CEO, you must have the ability to collaborate with your team members through open communication, trust and respect. Working together, you can achieve more than you would individually.

TEAMWORK

Teamwork is also essential in both roles. The rowing team must work together with patience and in silence, all focused on the same goal, if they are to reach their destination smoothly and efficiently. Similarly, the CEO must lead their team to work together in harmony, with all members contributing their unique strengths to achieve the company’s objectives.

ORIENTATION

Orientation is another important aspect of both rowing and leading a company. In rowing, constant monitoring of direction is crucial if the team wants to reach their destination. Whether it’s checking the sun’s position, the shoreline, or other landmarks, the rower must constantly adjust their position to stay on course. Similarly, a great CEO must stay oriented towards the company’s goals, purpose, and mission, always adapting their approach as needed to keep the team moving in the right direction.

CREATIVITY

Just as the rower may need to switch oars to make a turn, or row differently in strong currents or wind, the CEO must be creative in their approach to problem-solving. Thinking outside the box and coming up with innovative solutions can mean the difference between hitting roadblocks and achieving success.

RECALIBRATION

Recalibration is another critical skill for both roles. In rowing, the rower must continuously learn to be able to adjust their position within the boat’s space to maintain the boat’s balance and ensure the team’s safety. Similarly, the CEO must learn to adapt to changing conditions and navigate unforeseen challenges, always recalibrating their approach to maintain the company’s success.

EXPLORATION

Exploration and research is also essential in rowing and in management. The rower must know the waters they are navigating, the depth of the lake or river, the location of hidden obstacles, and the limits of their abilities. Similarly, the CEO must have a deep understanding of their industry, their competitors, and their team’s strengths and weaknesses, navigating the company’s journey with knowledge and expertise.

COACHING

In rowing, when things get difficult, you have a life jacket to keep you safe. In business, when things get difficult, your mentor is the one who will guide you. Mentors can offer you their experience, expertise, and guidance when you need it most. They can help you navigate through difficult situations, help you improve your leadership skills, and provide critical feedback that makes a difference.

Rowing and leading a company may seem like vastly different pursuits, but they share many similarities. Great CEOs, like great rowers, understand the importance of soft skills. Applying these skills consistently can mean the difference between hitting rough waters and achieving success.