We are celebrating the anniversary of Turkey’s great victory in the struggle for independence. Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s leadership in war and peace continues to set a global example not only during his lifetime but also today.

Atatürk’s leadership qualities offer the key to being an effective leader in the business world. On this meaningful day, I would like to share some thoughts on how we can carry his vision into our business life.

Atatürk was always visionary, even in the most difficult moments of the War of Independence. His defense strategy in the Battle of Sakarya and his plan for the Great Offensive are great examples of his ability to think long-term. In the same way, a leader needs to anticipate market trends and set long-term goals to lead the team to success. For example, aiming for market leadership by investing early in a sector that will grow in the future…
Determination was one of Atatürk’s most distinctive characteristics. His resistance at Gallipoli and his insistence on the proclamation of the Republic demonstrate his perseverance and determination. In the business world, this means that the CEO does not deviate from the goals he or she has set, even in difficult times, and does not give up in the face of adversity. For example, in a financial crisis, restructuring the company and steering it towards a sustainable future…
Atatürk always kept his communication with the people strong and reassured them even in the most difficult moments. The fact that he raised awareness by telling the story of the national struggle to his people with his speech shows the importance he attached to communication. In the business world, effective leaders are those who listen to their employees’ feedback and communicate clearly even in times of #crisis. This facilitates the adoption and implementation of decisions.
Atatürk was a leader who courageously made radical changes according to the requirements of the age. The Alphabet Revolution and his reforms in education were extremely bold steps for his time. In the business world, leaders should be the ones who seek innovative solutions and lead change processes. A status quo approach and failure to embrace new technologies such as digital transformation will cause a leader to fall behind.

Finally, Atatürk was aware that victory is a team effort. During the War of Independence, strong relationships and teamwork with his comrades-in-arms led to victory. In the business world, a successful leader is one who trusts his team and can delegate authority effectively. Leaders with low self-esteem have difficulty trusting their teams and this leads to failure.
I don’t expect business leaders to be Atatürk, but I am sure that those who benefit from his leadership qualities will see how much easier their work will be.