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If you’ve watched the UK reality show Traitors, you’ll know it’s full of drama, strategy, and suspense. Contestants must figure out who the “Traitors” are while trying to survive and win the game (and cash). It’s a mental workout, full of twists and turns, and honestly, as I have been watching this week, I couldn’t help but think it’s a bit like a crash course in leadership skills.
(Yes, I do struggle to turn my business brain off at all times! Yes, it does annoy my husband from time to time!)
It turns out, the same skills that help you win in Traitors can also make you a brilliant female leader in business. Here’s my thoughts…
In Traitors, you’ve got to be strategic. It’s all about planning, anticipating whether the others are working with you or against you, and staying one step ahead. Make the wrong move or say the wrong thing (I am thinking of you Alex), and it could all fall apart.
In business thinking strategically is just as important. Whether you’re setting goals for your team or making big decisions, being able to see the bigger picture and adapt is key to success.
Reading People Like a Pro
The best contestants in Traitors know how to read the room. They can spot who’s bluffing (or flat out lying), figure out who they can trust, and make friendships that may keep them safe.
In leadership this is where emotional intelligence comes in. Being able to understand people’s emotions, motivations, and needs helps you build stronger relationships – whether it’s with your team, clients, or the C-suite.
Staying Cool Under Pressure
The tension in Traitors is next-level; put yourself in the position of the contestants and you can see how pressure-fuelled it must be (I feel under pressure just watching the round table!) Players are constantly under pressure, but the ones who keep their cool and stay calm and confident tend to come out on top.
In leadership resilience and confidence can help you bounce back from setbacks and keep moving forward. Plus being able to have a difficult conversation under pressure calmly will result in better outcomes for all involved and keep relationships intact.
Be Yourself
Here’s the twist – even in a game of lies, authenticity matters. Contestants who come across as genuine are often the ones who win others’ trust.
In business, authenticity is essential to success. Being true to yourself and leading with integrity builds trust and respect from those around you and makes people feel like you can be someone they can come to with a problem.
Traitors might be a game, but it’s packed with lessons we can all learn from. Whether it’s thinking strategically, staying calm in difficult situations, or staying true to yourself, these skills are just as useful in the workplace as they are in the castle.
Is anyone else excited for tomorrow’s final??
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