By The People At Work
What do business visionaries like Jack Ma of Alibaba, Hong Kong tycoon Li Ka-shing, and Jack Dorsey, founder of Twitter, have in common?
Beyond their well-documented successes and game-changing innovations, they share the birth year of the Dragon—a detail that, particularly in Asia, is thought to have a significant bearing on their leadership destiny.
In Asian culture, zodiac signs are sometimes taken into consideration in various aspects of life, influencing business decisions, career paths, and leadership selection. More likely to be found in traditional , family-run businesses, the beliefs and practices influenced by astrology may subtly affect business decisions and relationships in the workplace. While these practices may not be overtly acknowledged in company policies or HR strategies, they are often interwoven in the social and cultural fabric of Asian society and may co-exist with merit-based selection processes.
Enter the Dragon
Among all the signs, the Dragon stands apart as the most auspicious and revered, often associated with the most dynamic and successful leaders, symbolising strength, fortune, and charisma. In the corporate landscape, this translates to the belief that Dragon leaders possess the foresight, dynamism, and boldness necessary to navigate the complexities of modern business.
How to Spot a Dragon
Traditionally, those born in the years that fall under the Dragon sign come every twelve years, with recent ones being 2024, 2012, 2000, 1988, 1976, and so on, tracing back through the decades in this cyclical zodiac. But to pinpoint a Dragon year accurately, one must refer to the lunar calendar, as the Gregorian calendar we commonly use does not align perfectly with the zodiac cycle.
Dragon at the Helm
The ‘Dragons’ in the corporate sphere are usually believed to be leaders who exhibit exceptional foresight, adaptability, and decision-making prowess. They are thought to be good at anticipating market trends and adapting their strategies proactively to stay ahead of the curve. Dragons are often highly regarded for their ability to inspire innovation, encourage calculated risk-taking, and foster a culture where creativity thrives.
To empower their teams, these leaders invest in developing the skills and talents of their members, ensuring that the entire group is equipped to meet the demands of an ever-changing business landscape. The belief is that the strength of the Dragon is not just in his or her own might, but in their capacity to uplift others, enabling the team to rise to new challenges collectively.
Flying with a Dragon
To thrive under a Dragon leader requires understanding their leadership style. One is often encouraged to:
1) Embrace Vision: Dragon leaders are often visionary. They appreciate team members who understand and embrace the grand vision.
2) Be Proactive: Take the initiative. Dragon leaders value individuals who are self-started and can anticipate needs and challenges ahead of time.
3) Communicate Effectively: Keep lines of communication open. Provide clear, concise updates, and be ready to speak up with your own insights. Dragon leaders respect confidence and directness.
4) Show Resilience: Dragon leaders can be intense and their high expectations may create a demanding work environment. Show that you can handle pressure and bounce back from setbacks.
5) Pursue Excellence: Aim for high standards in your work. Dragon leaders strive for excellence and they expect their team to do the same.
6) Learn Continuously: Commit to learning and self-improvement. Dragon leaders often lead by example in this regard and will respect those who invest in their own professional development.
7) Support Your Team: While Dragon leaders may lead the charge, they need a cohesive unit behind them. Be a unifying presence with your team.
8) Be Decisive: Make decisions effectively. Dragon leaders make quick decisions and they value team members who can do the same when the situation calls for it.
9) Offer Solutions: When facing challenges, present solutions alongside the problems. Dragon leaders are solutions-oriented and appreciate a problem-solving mindset.
We invite you to reflect on the style and strategies of leadership that resonate within your organisation. How might the qualities of the Dragon inspire your leadership approach or the way you champion others to lead? Share your thoughts in the comments.At The People At Work, our approach to executive search is grounded in an intimate understanding of the cultural and business landscape in which our clients operate. We prioritise not only a leader’s track record and expertise but also the subtler nuances of cultural fit and their capacity to drive and embody our clients’ long-term visions.