SILENCE IS SAFER THAN SPEECH – TEAM EXCELLENCE PUTS ITS BEST FOOT FORWARD

With the new session comes a new wave of leaders elected and appointed in the previous semester. The transition period is perhaps the most delicate in a leader’s tenure. It is in this period that can determine how the tenure goes. This is the period where the public is most watchful to see if this leader holds water. Contrary to popular opinion, leadership skills are not innate. The qualities that make up a leader are diverse; integrity, decisiveness, adaptability, communication and so on can be learned.

This article will analyze Team Excellence’s first contact with the Queens who voted them into power).

Team Excellence’s dealing with Queenites over the past two weeks has been unconventional, to say the least. There was very little direct communication from Miss. Ande’s administration to Queenites. Of course, there are quiet leaders, those who do not speak to the public unless they have something to say. And this is not to say that it does not work, it just means they communicate when it is imperative.

Philosophers have spoken about the virtue of silence, from individuals and leaders as well. After all, Rumi said, ‘In silence there is eloquence’. And eloquence is expected from Queens. Epictetus also said that silence is safer than speech, perhaps this is why they were reluctant to speak to Queenites.

Of course, silent leadership has its merits but there will always need to be a need for communication. Lack of communication will not inspire confidence in the public. But the lack of communication wasn’t the entire problem. The concerns of Queenites were not addressed. There was no eloquence in the silence instead Queenites felt ignored. A bereaved Queenite complained, “The excos aren’t even giving us any information. This is unfair. At least, let’s know what is going on...”

Another aggrieved Queenite said, “...The people that voted you [Dooshima Ande] in are complaining. What are you going to do about it?”

In an interview with Queen Elizabeth II Hall, when talking about the challenges Miss. Ande expressed concerns about her communication with Queenites and expressed that she was the 'mouthpiece of the Management'. Something she has done better since her initial silence.

Queenites are now updated regularly on the registration process and informed by the executives. All in all, it was not the best way to start the session but it seems that things are looking up.