The Leadership Secrets of Billy Graham

LEADERSHIP

LESSONS | Empowering

Applying the Principles

At the core of leadership is guiding and empowering those we

lead. When we do so with skill, love, and grace, the effects radi-

ate far beyond those we personally touch.

But it takes skill and empathy. Here are ideas on how to go

about it.

Unleash and Multiply
When we interviewed Graham biographer Bill Martin, he told
us that what had impressed him most when he talked with people
who had worked with Billy over the decades was the way he
selected and delegated. “He chooses people whom he trusts,” Mar-
tin said, “then delegates a great deal of the authority to do the
task. Their own dedication to him and confidence in him causes
them often to rise to the occasion.”
He observed that often people without qualifications for the
tasks would, with Billy’s confidence in them, rise to the chal-
lenges. “Pastor Lane Adams told me that Billy is rather like a mas-
ter artist. He says, ‘Here is the easel. Here are a few lines. Now,
you go ahead and fill in the blanks.’”
Martin also quoted T. W. Wilson’s insight: “He gives you a task,
and then says, ‘Don’t bother me with the details; we can talk
about it from time to time—but come back and tell me when you
have it done.’”
The leader with a large vision knows the means of accom-
plishment is to select those with great capacities who can slash
their own trail through the thickets and get the job done. But it’s
far more than mere selection and assignment. Delegation means
providing clear, simple “lines” and freedom, but also generating
strong loyalties and a sense that each person’s contribution is
highly valued. “Billy not only delegates authority,” says Martin,
“but he gives credit to those who do their jobs and shares the
credit very generously; that makes others feel appreciated. They

The Leadership Secrets of Billy Graham