The rarest commodity is leadership without ego: Bob Davids at TEDxESCP

Find more on:
www.tedxescp.com
tedxescp
tedxescp
TEDxESCP is an independently organised TED event, by students of ESCP Europe in Paris.
Curator, TEDxESCP: Johannes Bittel
Produced by: Adrián Pablo Trinidad
In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)
TEDxESCP is brought to you by:
Ideas Club Paris
ideasclubparis.com

[@dylanreynolds6815]

I think sometimes people misread what leadership is: Leaders don’t get people to believe in them, they get people to believe in themselves. Leaders don’t say follow me, they act. People motivate themselves, leaders give them the tools to achieve their abilities.

[@jdveals57]

Well said!

[@angelanelajuly2961]

Is that what my problem is? I hold a sight and see potential. But I want them to be that potential and thought they become the leader. But, your saying, I already lead them.

[@curiouscommunicator7117]

"I measure my own success as a leader by how well the people who work for me succeed". Thanks for your great points on leadership.

[@billhoward532]

The humblest of servants make the greatest of leaders.

[@baderinwa1]

Bill Howard Dr. Martin Luther King Jr..

[@billhoward532]

Quite possibly - I though I'd originated it though :-)

[@MarcovonAntoni-jb6bh]

i didn't read your comment. Otherwise, I wold have put my comment as a reply to yours. If "Up to organization" is a so actual book, after 50 years we can hope it will be released in the public domain so as to let anyone be able to read it and conform his organization to the content of the book. At least, for what it isn't strictly Masonic.

[@bradleyvickers3375]

@@MarcovonAntoni-jb6bh you

[@bradleyvickers3375]

@@baderinwa1I 8

[@jdiscoe]

I was lucky enough to work for Bob as a member of his industrial design team at Radica Games. That small group produced some of the largest selling items at Walmart for years and produced talent that is still in major leadership roles across several industries, some 20-yrs later. He was also very generous with profit sharing across the company, and some of my fondest memories in my early career were seeing the reactions of staff opening up bonus checks... it was quite amazing, genuine and across all levels of employment, people were rewarded generously. Old school.

[@junebugjoe5914]

Eisenhower also said: " If it didn't matter who got the credit, then we would be astounded of what would be accomplished"

[@mfawls9624]

I agree Eisenhower is a good leader...but George Marshall did even more, with less ego.

[@duncescotus2342]

Eisenhower was notorious for never taking the blame for anything.

[@ahmedshaer707]

The best advice i ever received . If you want to be a leader , respect the people you work with

[@tlm5830]

Agreed. I would even take it a step further and say "respect the people you work for" Because I believe as a leader you work for the people that chose to follow you

[@samiaismail4702]

Ahmed Hassan ف٤٣

[@twornstaff]

I am a leadership consultant. I teach managers how to become leaders. This is powerful! I love how gently, effortlessly he explains what a leader is.

[@IAmMrQ]

Integrity is the key to genuine leadership. A rare character trait but without integrity it's misleading that people do.

[@EdwardTilley]

It helps to know a thing or two as well ;)

[@tommycage5457]

emotional intelligence

[@duncescotus2342]

Integrity is the most misleading word of all as it's meaningless the way it's usually used. If someone means honesty, they should say so.

[@FlooRazkalz916]

I really appreciate his whole demeanor and voice tone. As far as the topic of "Leadership without EGO" or as i refer to it as "Don't get drunk with POWER", i 100% agree with it. I find this particular talk for me to be INSPIRING and RELATIVE.

[@worldwithoutwar8622]

Can I correct your English without ego: you probably were trying to say: INSPIRING AND RELEVANT!

[@kannkarate6994]

+World Without War I bet he will thank you in about 5 years

[@chrisnorniron]

@@worldwithoutwar8622 Inspiring and relatable?

[@LeafySpreads]

Like listening to and receiving counsel from a caring grandfather. Very warm.

[@ufehboss2566]

@@worldwithoutwar8622 May not necessarily mean relevant but relative as in to relate more with the people you lead

[@gabriellesecretpocket3705]

If all leaders in the world would have the characters that were mentioned the world would surely be in order and in peace. "You need to be in touch with the people you lead and to be in their shoes..."

[@mfawls9624]

Perhaps 'all leaders' are only in their places because the rest of us have abdicated leadership?

[@sahil-06-11]

If that happens, then what will be the difference between them?

[@srimansrini]

This is one of the finest talks about Leadership. I have listened several speeches, read books and this particular talk occupies a top slot in my list. Citing examples from the lives of Mahatma Gandhi to Ronald Reagan, Bob Davis says 'Leadership without ego is a rarest commodity'. Persuasively presented, extremely insightful and endlessly entertaining, this is a memorable talk. Highly recommended for the leaders and aspiring leaders.

[@jupitersaturn3640]

I agree 💯

[@tubbysza]

You had 111 likes but because I typed this... You have more

[@maryrauchenstein1124]

I completely agree! Fabulous video!

[@MarcovonAntoni-jb6bh]

Sorry, the right surname is Davis or Davids? Maybe two variants of the same Jewish patriarchal dinasty. We can't believe Jewish communities had diligently traced across centuries all the descendants of the saint King David of Israel. He would have spoke about Jesus Christ God, who was in a certain sense one of his direct descendants. But I think the surname was a deception since the divine child of Israel was their last heir.

[@AmRonPaulian]

And you have masterfully written piece of art. Thank you. I shared this video with countless number of people but they don’t see what I saw and they don’t listen the way I did, and they don’t understand what understood from this great lecture.

[@Smo1k]

There are two items in this talk that make it stand out: First, It is quite literally a talk: Breaking down what actors call the fourth wall, Bob makes you want to call him by his first name. I'm sitting at a different place, both in time and space, watching and listening through a small screen on a laptop with headphones on, and still, I feel that I'm the guy he's addressing. I bet you and the audience felt the same way. Second, Bob isn't selling me his book, he's pointing to another guy's book. This is important! I don't know abut the rest of you, but I have a hard time learning when I feel sold to, rather than taught. Bob would like me to become a better leader, not for the sake of his wallet or pride, but for the sake of it being better than the opposite in itself. Thanks for sharing this :)

[@qambi1]

that's a great point you made on 'having a hard time learning when I feel sold to, rather than taught'.. I feel the same way..

[@Smo1k]

@@qambi1 :)

[@pennygonzalez3383]

Most people don't understand leadership "Leadership is a gift you cant buy or sell it" This is such an amazing presentation.

[@vladimirgoodness2212]

Management: 3 things you can control: -quality -time -money When you choose one, the other two will suffer 5:00 Leadership if you push people, you don't know Which way they will go

[@rightspeechonrightthing1939]

This is a great management theory, thanks

[@RoseGarlandWidell]

I appreciate how Bob Davids sits down to demonstrate an equality with the people who are watching. Well done.

[@SushBasak]

One of the best TedEx talks that I've listened to till date. Thank you Sir, for your precious time and for sharing your kind thoughts. Sure does give me a vision and understanding of the leader i wish to be. God bless you!

[@mountainbrease2723]

Sushama Basak

[@duni7374]

"Management is not leading." -- Thank you

[@MarkWestscoutingmaniac]

A manager says....................Do this or else. A leader says..................follow me and I will show you the way.

[@TheBellyFatSolution]

Excellent comment Mark

[@emilyhufschmidt9915]

Mark West Sometimes you need someone to say, "Do this or else"... We needed that, after the horrific damage done by the Obamas. So we elected Donald Trump and I, for one, think he's doing a wonderful job of repairing the damage.

[@anashashmi]

... follow me ... or get left behind.

[@brigjay123]

​@@emilyhufschmidt9915 lol. He is playing golf, watching TV, doing rallies and enriching himself most of the time.

[@theTavis01]

To be a good leader requires a strong and disciplined ego. Without an ego, you CANNOT make the hard decisions required of such a position.

[@robbarnes5140]

Great distinction between leadership and management.

[@matthewbryson6423]

That was brilliant. Super smart and humble guy. Love his demeanor

[@suniamukherjee2531]

Money, Time, Quality- The most important drivers in any industry- Product or services or both. Thanks Bob for the beautiful video.

[@amitkumarsharmamaraal687]

I like to thank you, Mr. Bob Davids, for this conversation.

[@jdresurreccion3304]

speechless. I learned a lot of things in a single video.

[@kevinfennell7986]

+Nikko Resurreccion Obviously you were not speechless, you learned a lot of things in a single video.

[@katrinechristensen7820]

I love the way Bob Davids puts leadership into a bigger context and uses simple examples to demonstrate how impactful leadership is :) Thank you sir, I really wish to learn a lot more from you.

[@dereckamcknight3247]

Katrine Christense like comment

[@1guyb]

i am currently training to be a manager and always thought I would do it differently to any way I've been managed and he has just hit the nail on the head of my beliefs and ideas I have had to achieve this and reinforced them even more, really glad i watched this

[@InfoAudit]

"Management is control .. quality, time, money .. where are people?" .. 👍👍

[@debbienarver5928]

I have always found it difficult to describe the difference between management and leadership. This talk made it so clear! thank you.

[@jaustin777]

We are all born with the capacity and ability for both leadership and creativity. Most of us unlearn the natural talents we have through socialization. Our models tell us and many of us follow unhealthy and unsuccessful approaches to life. Indoctrination is the enemy of inspiration.

[@zayagilana8760]

Thank you Mr. Davids. I am moved beyond the ability to express myself. Your humility and wisdom shine through so powerfully. Thank you, Sir.

[@IanBerry]

Brilliant insights into real leadership and one of the key characteristics demonstrated by the presenter - humility

[@dalepetersen1166]

I like the concept of 360 degrees of leadership. Leadership doesn't just flow from the top down it also travels from the bottom up

[@priscillaknight4678]

Marvelous, inspiring, soul hitting presentation about Leadership!

[@ahmadshavandi4604]

People give you POWER and they watch you! If you give it back to them they will give you more POWER. Awesome!

[@troygardner1610]

thanks Bob ...through the vision of leadership is the only way we can get to the future that benefits us all, amen

[@cocoaspice5]

Part 3) Being a LEADER is about being in touch with your humanity and knowing that the people who work with and for you are only human, as well - the only way to REACH them so that the product they produce, the product you must manage, is created at its highest and best value, is to always remember the gift you have been given in being CHOSEN to lead, and that is something our educational systems, professional, family, and other cultural systems are hard-pressed to incorporate.

[@chevybob9836]

This is a cool video, thanks so much for making it. I also thought management and leadership were the same, but management is pushing and leadership is pulling. And you don't have to have a giant ego to be a leader which is a good thing.

[@Theleadersteacher]

Every human was born with leadership qualities. leadership is about choices and how you conduct your behaviors. Leadership is about disciplining your personality and putting other people first with joy and love. I say we all have it but some of us humans have a issue with discipline part and that is very important for anyone who want's to lead anything and anybody. Love and peace to you.

[@kalyanbasak5344]

Marvellous speech. Every word is priceless.

[@ahorizon2000]

This topic was thoroughly covered in a world-famous book first published in 1989: "The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People", by Stephen R. Covey.

[@dr.ebubekirorsun9288]

In 6th Century, someone(pbuh) said "The true leader of the community is the servant of them". My motto in these days as a director/principal. People don't need directions (how.what); they need guidance (where.why).

[@suniamukherjee2531]

Language is again not a barrier for communication. This is leadership Bob- All you need is the intent and the people chose you as a leader. It is not about East or Went, Chinese or American, at the end of the day, we are all humans. So you led by example. Very impressed by your thoughts and thanks for sharing. Quoting Gandhi again took me back in history of our country India. We need to be in touch and be in the shoes of the people who are leading you. God bless !!!

[@VKA00376]

I LOVE this. Such an eloquent speaker. His use of pauses and examples are spot on. Politicians should really harken to this. Could you imagine a society where the leaders GIVE power the people instead of taking it from them? WHAT A CONCEPT! I find I get into power struggles with bosses and managers that take power away, and yet, I am willing to work overtime for a boss that will get down in the trenches with me. It's about empowering, not commanding.

[@allenhigbee6009]

It sounds like a story of failure by most organizations. I think we have been misled in our society all together. I'm glad I'm now aware.

[@jag2039]

One of the best I ever listen to. Thanks I've worked in the field all my life, always hated when Mangment would come around n bark.But always loved it when that one like you came around an would offer a hand are a new way of doing things to make it easier or just a pat on the back by saying good job n thank You It made my day n made you feel appreciate. Your 💯 % right

[@CodeAndCoins]

I learn from this video that, Children listen to their parent if parent act as a leader more than the manager with their children

[@kirankumar-hg5fd]

We are truly blessed to listen so profound talk leadership.Thank you thank you thank you David Sir

[@vaneettalwar5895]

the talk is priceless, and BOB is a walking university......... Unforgettable experience..........

[@mijodo2008]

The best analysis of Management & Leadership. Cheers from Michael. Australia.

[@getitright7948]

Wow, it brought tears to my eyes. This is exactly what I wanted to tell to my clients. Thank u sir for sharing your wisdom with us. ♥️

[@brucemcgraw7014]

Hands down probably one of the best talks I've listened to in a long time

[@omerkhokhar9092]

What an outstanding and inspiring 12 minutes. Thank you

[@ruybal34]

Great speech! My only disagreement is that leaders aren’t born, they are made.

[@Achumama]

True leadership.. great advice

[@ajax2600]

By far one of the BEST I've heard. The calm demeanor, the different examples / short stories, tone of voice, and lastly I was able to visualize what was taking place as he told the stories. Thank you ! I needed this today.

[@SalsaQueen]

Great video! Excellent insights.

[@ashoksinha1581]

well explained about the leadership in short time. Good to hear about Mahatma Gandhi - how he led to India freedom

[@blueloo1513]

Great sharing Bob. By this, You are already a great leader. Thank you very much.

[@trustthefog]

I believe that you mentioned the real point Bob Davids wanted to show in the end "you can be taught to anyone who wants to master it." And that's a gift sort of, still you cannot have it in one day via an online purchase, you can master it through a hard work and a long experiential journey. And the deep understanding of leadership that comes is the most incredible gift of yours to yourself.

[@SP-ki3vg]

Loved this one! Rarest by a light year.

[@TheMpmpmpmpmpmp]

Leadership is a choice to look out for the people around you. It isn't something you are born with it is a skill that can be practiced and developed.

[@fortifyyourdata2971]

Definitely one of the best Tedx Talks I've listen to in a while. A lot I personally needed to hear from this.

[@airinemanwo481]

Even the tone of his voice can confirm what he stands for, leadership without ego. I am thrilled to watch this very inspiring talk Mr David. Thanks, short but very powerful.

[@JamesWillmus]

Truer words have never been spoken, and I must thank Bob Davids, because he helped me realize my problem. I've been pushing my whole life, now I must pull to get things done.

[@venugopalj8240]

Thank you for sharing great experience, I have understood the difference between manager and leader

[@speckofdust272]

Simply Awesome ... everyone should listen to this TED talk 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@ALiberalVeteran]

The US Army Basic Training Doctrine teaches its recruits "LDRSHIP". Thats "Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity and Personal Courage." This is a great starting point for young leaders. The understanding and general application of this are key to being successful.

[@MissVelvetElle]

We are all born to be creators and leaders...at the very least, leaders of our own lives, our actions, our directions.

[@RicovanLeeuwen]

Kind of agree. If one can let go of control, of 'needing to control individuals', and focusing on the vision of where to go, then one can lead. This can, indeed, be taught, although some might have a stronger vision than others. On top, others are more prototypical. The more prototypical one is, the more trustworthy, charismatic, and influential one is. This, is indeed teachable.

[@nickzimm94]

"You have to be in touch with the people you lead and you need to be in their shoes."

[@chevy-is-a-good-boy]

Humility is elusive at the best of times, understanding the value of humbling oneself would make the world a far better place to live. But that will never happen at levels that affect us all.

[@davidelliott8364]

That was a beautifully delivered, powerful and informative presentation. I have been responsible for projects for a decade and whilst I have managed to deliver on those projects I'm certain if I could have kept uppermost in my mind some of the tenets from Bob Davids' lecture all would have benefitted. I learned in the service (Royal Navy) that, yes, you can tell people what to do but I always found that leading people through respect and understanding gave far better results, it makes for individuals that feel valued and therefore are much more inclined to fully engage with the task at hand. Definitely a 'must see' lecture. Thank you very much Mr, Bob Davids

[@janajorgenson2084]

What a valuable 12 minutes of wisdom. I love this talk and I'm running out to get the book right away! Thank you Bob Davids, thank you, thank you, thank you!

[@johnlye]

Invaluable stuff. Thanks Mr Davids and Robert Townsend.

[@arlinegeorge6967]

Great great talk. So true leader ship is a gift. There are many many great beautiful amazing soul being true leaders. Be in their shoes n not judge people coz u have power. inspiring, thank you, bless you. All your dreams come true.

[@vincentcupido5525]

Wow, what an amazing talk. I was nearly in tears.

[@annashaw7081]

I love this, he is such an intelligent man

[@XSiempreSolo]

Bob, you are the grandpa we don't deserve

[@szigetvar1]

What a fantastic inspiring talk. So powerful.

[@primescene9110]

Thank you so much for sharing this priceless experience to the world.

[@mindvolution]

Selfishness is indeed at the core of corrupted leaders, whether in business or politics.

[@insipid_lipid]

Incredible. Thank you for this.

[@rohitbhardwaj8098]

This should be mandatory for all aspiring professionals without exception. The best I have seen on leadership probably!

[@PaulCarterArt]

great reminders of giving back when leading and letting go of ego to lead by example not ego. Thanks Bob

[@camargo2012]

I was a leader for a large corp which won an important award recognized worldwide, my department was the best in that company when i was there and mind you i did it without college(had mentors though) my department was basically in control of their best property. Key philosophy for me is the following: "They dont work for me, I work for THEM." I got bored after reaching peal efficiency and left for another company to challenge myself in a different industry. I currently run the best property at this different company i work at.

[@omer82752]

A good leader motivates his people to have the initiative and desire to do the best job humanly possible while recognizing their limitations. To ask people to do something beyond their limitations is the cause of bad morale. Frankly most of our leaders either in business or politics has forgotten what it's like to be on the bottom rung and just bark orders so they don't have to do any work themselves, do as I say not as I do!!!!!

[@robertdavids9772]

Actually, one human cannot motivate another, they create an environment where people motivate themselves. Motivation is internal. Bob

[@yichern4351]

This video is so powerful. I'm holding back tears

[@medhatsabrytechstamina5426]

The pure wisdom about leadership.Period!

[@KaneyoshiSouji]

This reminds me of Seneca when he said a leader is someone who serves others. I love this talk. I've been listening to many ted talks for months now, but this one really feel warm and full of positive power. Thank you!

[@RicardoPicena]

[3 things you can control “Quality, time & money” without one the other two will suffer ]

[@jaysweeney2032]

This is really a lesson for all of us whom are charged with leadership. Great lecture

[@mrhunterf2869]

Usually i dont like Ted talks but this was the best talk. Thank you.

[@owentomos2306]

This is an excellent talk, what a great guy to have as a mentor.

[@ceciliaserrano3521]

yes Sir! I agree with you. We need those kind of leaders who lead without ego.. who are others centered, God centered..most especially.

[@Californiamari]

Such a brilliant talk. What an amazing man.

[@csabri2]

Everyone is a leader to an extent. A real leader will show people how its done. Telling people "you're either born with it or not" is not very courageous.

[@vaporosoez]

Chaim Sabri I agree, I have seen great leaders instill self-confidence in others--- inspiring leadership skills

[@chrissolon5165]

+Chaim Sabri - I believe you misunderstood what was meant by "you're either born with it or not" regarding leadership traits. I disagree that everyone is a leader to an extent. I know many people that have no desire to be in a leadership role and are happier being "in the trenches, doing the work". I call then the "doers" and there is nothing wrong with that, they enjoy doing things, not leading. Then there are narcissistic sociopaths, that are the epitome of ego. These persons have no leadership traits at all, and most likely were never born with any.

[@vaporosoez]

I agree completely :)

[@marieferguson2442]

@@chrissolon5165 I am a doer good worker but not got leadership skills you can give me loads of work and I will do it all

[@shintarowatari41]

So humble and very much clearly presentation . Your words sir , moves a mountain . You don't need to stand up ,your word enough is powerful and I salute and please share more mentor me. By your words. - thank you

[@claudiachamberland4424]

Excellent! Bob Davis gets it! Inspiring!

[@jeannnieleixter4169]

Thank you for the speech.

[@DaNZealand]

What a great speech!!!!! Thank you!

[@SuperJohn011]

Wow!! Very fine talk on leadership. I feel i will become a better leader after watching this.