This article was based on the interview with Eric Liedtke of Under Armour by Greg Kihlström, AI and MarTech keynote speaker for The Agile Brand with Greg Kihlström podcast. Listen to the original episode here:
In today’s fast-paced business environment, effective leadership is more crucial than ever. As organizations strive to adapt to changing market demands and consumer preferences, the need for agility and innovation becomes paramount. One of the most significant lessons in fostering such an environment is the importance of empowering teams while avoiding the pitfalls of micromanagement.
This concept was eloquently articulated by Eric Liedtke, Executive Vice President of Brand Strategy at Under Armour, during a recent episode of the Agile Brand Podcast, where he shared insights from his extensive career in the sportswear industry.
At the heart of Liedtke’s philosophy is the notion that leaders should prioritize empowerment over control. He recounted a pivotal moment early in his career at Adidas when his CEO advised him, “Don’t ask for permission, ask for my advice.” This simple yet profound statement encapsulates a leadership style that encourages autonomy and confidence among team members. By fostering an environment where employees feel trusted to make decisions, leaders can cultivate a culture of innovation and accountability.
Empowerment is not merely about granting freedom; it involves creating a supportive atmosphere where team members are encouraged to take risks and explore new ideas. When individuals feel that their contributions are valued and that they have the authority to act, they are more likely to engage deeply with their work and collaborate effectively with their peers. Liedtke emphasized that his approach to leadership aims to inspire and motivate teams rather than stifle their creativity. By positioning himself as a mentor rather than a micromanager, he aims to instill confidence in his colleagues, enabling them to thrive in their roles.
Conversely, micromanagement can be detrimental to both individual and organizational performance. It often leads to a toxic work environment characterized by stress, lack of initiative, and diminished morale. Employees subjected to micromanagement may feel undervalued and disengaged, resulting in higher turnover rates and decreased productivity. Liedtke’s experience highlights the need for leaders to recognize the fine line between providing guidance and overstepping boundaries. Effective leadership involves striking a balance where team members receive the support they need without feeling suffocated by oversight.
Moreover, avoiding micromanagement allows for greater innovation within teams. When individuals are given the freedom to explore their ideas, they are more likely to develop creative solutions that can drive the organization forward. This is particularly important in industries like fashion and technology, where consumer preferences are constantly evolving. As Liedtke noted, the success of the e-commerce platform at Adidas, which reached $4 billion in revenue in 2020, was a result of empowering teams to innovate and respond to market trends without the constraints of excessive oversight.
To cultivate a culture of empowerment, leaders should focus on several key practices. First, they should foster open communication, encouraging team members to share their ideas and feedback without fear of retribution. Second, leaders should provide opportunities for professional development, equipping employees with the skills and knowledge they need to excel in their roles. Finally, leaders must model the behavior they wish to see, demonstrating trust and respect for their teams’ capabilities.
The path to successful leadership lies in empowering teams and avoiding the pitfalls of micromanagement. By fostering an environment of trust, collaboration, and innovation, leaders can unlock the full potential of their organizations. As Eric Liedtke’s experiences illustrate, the most effective leaders are those who inspire confidence in their teams, enabling them to take ownership of their work and drive meaningful change. In a world where agility and adaptability are essential, this approach not only enhances individual performance but also contributes to the long-term success of the organization as a whole.
