USS Benfold In It's Your Ship

IT’S YOUR SHIP

Introduction: “USS Benfold” is a guided missile destroyer and the Navy’s most versatile and advanced ship with tons of armor protection and highly skilled crew. Captain Michael D. Abrashoff was commissioned in 1996 and commanded the ship for twenty months beginning in June 1997. During his time on the ship, he introduces some unique takes on management and leadership style in his book “It’s Your Ship”. It is presented through the eyes of a naval commander. The captain talks about empowerment and core leadership principle that is taught in the book. The story of Captain Michael D. Abrashoff and his command of USS Benfold has become legendary and teaches us how to motivate your employees and take responsibility of their actions

The predecessor was not likeable among the crew. He was treated with disrespect and the crew were jeering blatantly to get rid of him during the change of command ceremony. Abrashoff was not worried about being liked as the Benfold’s new commander, all he really cared about was restoring the respect, trust and effectiveness the former captain had lost. After reading some exit surveys on when people wanted to leave, Captain Abrashoff pointed out some reasons. The top reason was not getting treated with respect and dignity. Second was being prevented from making an impact on the organization; third was not being listened to; and fourth, not being rewarded with more responsibility. Moreover, after doing some research low pay is number five on the list. Same is the case in any organization. If employees are not rewarded and not treated with respect, they are bound to leave the workplace. In any organization, these rules and policies should be followed. Even leaders and managers at the workplace should be treated with dignity. Leaders should create an easy going environment in an organization. Leaders should get to know more about his team and the company to in order to get the best possible outcome. That’s what Captain Abrashoff did. As soon as got assigned as a new captain, he started interviewing the crew and listened to what they wanted. He also contributed some nice gestures among the crew. He sent ship’s cooks to culinary school and bought quality civilian brands that were cheaper and tastier. He also arranged music shows on the deck which lightened up a tedious and sometimes dangerous job. You must assume that everyone wants to do well. It is then important that you give your employees the space and confidence they need to do their jobs. Taking command does not mean shouting out orders. Leadership focuses on encouraging people. In todays’ world,