LIFESTYLE
LEVERAGING THE PILOT MINDSET FOR EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP By: Nick Tarascio, CEO, Ventura Air Services and Jet Pilot
A
ircraft pilot training is extensive and challenging. Gaining ratings on multiple aircraft types, including jets, is a complex process. The lessons and experiences gained by pilots in the cockpit create a distinct mindset that can be adapted by business leaders. Faced with the need to adapt plans and make quick decisions, some of which could be life or death, pilots must learn to lead and trust themselves. With trust comes confidence to achieve mission success and overcome challenges.
Q Self-Reliance and Leadership
The first time I flew solo, I was 16 years old. This was not my first time in the pilot’s seat, but this time, I was alone. This was thrilling; my safety net had been removed, and the instructor was not there. When I took off, there was a notable difference; all the actions and responsibilities were on me now. I recognized the importance of rising to the challenge and clearly understood the need for self-reliance. Similarly, leaders need to rise to the occasion and gain the tools they need to achieve success. A pilot, like a business owner, wears numerous hats. For leaders, there comes a point where they must delegate. Can a copilot or crew member complete tasks or solve problems? It is up to the pilot to make this determination and prioritize how tasks are managed. Leaders must identify actions that must be delegated and determine if team members have the skills and ability to complete the task effectively. Businesses and aircraft have to keep moving to complete a mission or achieve a goal. This unstoppable momentum means challenges and issues must be addressed immediately and decisively. This alone is a powerful mindset to adopt. In business, waiting may mean the opportunity is lost, or the challenge becomes too great. In the cockpit, there is no
70
SHALE MAGAZINE MAY/JUNE 2021
time for vacillation. Pilots learn to think quickly and execute fast. When done in business, this creates a competitive advantage.
Q Clear and Deliberate Communications
In the air or on the ground, lives can be at risk if information and intentions are not presented clearly. It is for this reason that pilots and air traffic controllers have developed a specific vocabulary to aid in concise communication. Communication begins with the pilots identifying themselves and their aircraft, followed by who they are addressing. Air traffic control will respond, acknowledging they have heard the statement. This recognition gives the pilot the cue to state their intentions. They may wish to taxi to the runway or ask for approach clearance. This request is made in a precise way, using an economy of words. There is no time for long explanations or confusing statements. The tower will then grant or deny the request. This is a very deliberate and clear communications protocol that is a key part of safety and operations. Intentions are repeated back, demonstrating the message has been heard. This is an excellent approach for leaders to take. When staff members repeat back a request, it ensures they understand what is being asked. If unable to repeat what they are to do, that moment is the best time to clarify. With this strategy, the leader is more likely to get what he or she wants. Standardized language should be adapted for business. Stating intentions and goals allows leaders to share their vision and how goals will be accomplished. When language is confusing and intentions muddled, a company will struggle to stay on course.
Q Decisive Decision Making
In the cockpit, pilots know exactly what the dashboard tells them. For each flight, pilots know what altitude they will be flying,
IN THE AIR OR ON THE GROUND, LIVES CAN BE AT RISK IF INFORMATION AND INTENTIONS ARE NOT PRESENTED CLEARLY
