Game of Thrones & Talent Management : What Kind of Leader Are You?

If Jon Snow had a LinkedIn profile, would he have specified: “North Wall Specialist and proven skills in managing White Walkers”?! In the universe of Game of Thrones (or GoT), just like in the professional world, the real war is the talent war. And there, the CV isn’t everything. No matter what your role is, you need to know how to use your strengths and develop, or else disappear! Among the 27 leaders in the series, which one corresponds to you the best? And above all, which ones are hiding among your employees?

What’s the connection between GoT and talent management?

The epic battles, captivating plots, and intriguingly complex characters are all reasons why Game of Thrones has captivated its global audience. But what doesn’t often get enough recognition is the intriguing representation of different forms of leadership by the series’ characters.

Whether they’re leading kingdoms, houses, or simple bands of outlaws, they all have something to teach us about talent management. In this fantastical world, each character is like the leader of a company that must identify and foster talent. So, which character would represent what type of leader in our professional world?

Here is a decryption of the leadership lessons we can draw from the Game of Thrones universe, from 27 of the characters, each offering their style of leadership, which I have chosen to group into 7 categories of leaders.

I — Transformational leaders

Daenerys Targaryen, Margaery Tyrell, Bran Stark, Robb Stark.

Transformational leaders operate with a vision that manages to captivate and motivate others. They are champions of evolution, encouraging and instigating change, creativity, and innovation. They get their name from their ability to “transform” the atmosphere and direction of their organization based on their unique and engaging vision. Inspirational transformational leaders like Daenerys Targaryen, Margaery Tyrell, and Bran Stark, are capable of motivating and inspiring those around them to excel and work towards a common higher purpose. Their vision is able to transcend narrow personal motivations and promote unity, collaboration, and excellence.

• STRENGTHS: Transformational leaders excel in communication and persuasion. They can articulate their visions in a way that is clear, compelling, and motivating for everyone. They often serve as a source of inspiration for their teams and encourage personal growth and development. They typically generate a lot of enthusiasm and loyalty due to their dynamism and contagious passion. Transformational leaders are also adept at navigating complex and ambiguous situations, as they are capable of challenging the status quo and initiating new ways of thinking.
• WEAKNESSES: Transformational leaders also have some weaknesses. They can sometimes be overly focused on their grand visions and neglect the practical details of realizing those visions. Due to their idealistic thinking, they might also create unrealistic expectations, which could potentially demotivate team members if these expectations are not met. Moreover, these leaders can sometimes be perceived as too ambitious or insensitive to the concerns of their colleagues, as they are highly change-oriented and focused on achieving their vision. As a result, they might struggle to gain buy-in from more conservative team members or those resistant to change.

1) Daenerys Targaryen, the Liberator

Known for her unlikely rise to power, Daenerys Targaryen demonstrates the ability to liberate and inspire individuals to realize their full potential — just like a seasoned transformational leader. Possessing an ambitious vision, Daenerys wields her power not only to pursue her own ambitions but also to eliminate oppression and foster independence and autonomy among those who follow her. She challenges the status quo and is not afraid to make bold decisions to facilitate change. You can draw inspiration from her leadership to encourage your collaborators to become “dragons” — motivated and autonomous individuals capable of making strategic decisions and outperforming the competition.

2) Margaery Tyrell, the Influencer

Thanks to her emotional intelligence and ability to sway situations to her advantage, Margaery has proven to be an exceptional transformational leader in the Game of Thrones universe. She masters the art of diplomacy and persuasion, using her sensitivity towards others to gain the trust and respect of her allies. Her leadership skills are also demonstrated by her ability to boost the morale of those around her and inspire others to give their best. In today’s businesses, it’s crucial to establish good leaders with high emotional intelligence, who know how to generate enthusiasm, motivate their teams, and lead towards a common superior goal.

3) Bran Stark, the Visionary

Bran Stark is an exceptional leader in his way of embracing evolution in the face of adversity. After being brutally paralyzed, he discovers talents for vision — insights into the past, present, and future that guide his decisions. Whether you are a team manager or a CEO, Bran reminds us that anticipating challenges and foreseeing trends is a crucial element of leadership. Knowing what is happening and what is likely to happen, you can plan accordingly and adapt to each situation. Bran Stark exemplifies how challenges can be transformed into unique opportunities for personal growth and leadership.

4) Robb Stark, the Valiant

Becoming King in the North, Robb displays transformational leadership characterized by his charisma and bravery. In an environment where mistrust is common, he manages to rally men behind him and forge strategic alliances. His ability to make bold decisions in complex situations confirms his competence as a leader. His trajectory is reminiscent of leaders navigating an uncertain and competitive organizational climate, where a clear vision and strong leadership are indispensable assets.

II — Strategic leaders

Jon Snow, Tyrion Lannister, Samwell Tarly, Lord Varys, Gendry.

Strategic leaders are those who understand the importance of long-term vision, precise planning, and anticipating future challenges and opportunities. They have an innate ability to grasp the complexity of the market, emerging trends, and the internal dynamics of their organization. By showcasing their analytical mind, they are capable of devising sophisticated action plans, always keeping an eye on the future. These leaders are like the helmsmen of a ship, always ready to adjust the course to navigate through turbulent waters. They are often recognized for their ability to steer their teams through periods of change, turbulence, and growth.

• STRENGTHS: Strategic leaders are generally very good at identifying problems and opportunities early on. They have an excellent ability to dissect information, establish links between trends, events, and data, allowing them to make predictions and formulate effective strategies. Their strong ability to see the bigger picture, rather than the short term, helps keep the team and the organization on the right track. In addition to being visionaries, they are often flexible and know how to adapt quickly, which is crucial in the constantly evolving world of work.
• WEAKNESSES: Strategic leaders can sometimes be too focused on the future, to the point that they neglect immediate problems and challenges. By projecting too far into the future, they risk losing sight of immediate challenges and the needs of their teams, which can lead to inefficient management and performance issues. Moreover, these leaders can sometimes struggle to convey their strategic vision to their teams. Without clear communication, their teams may end up not understanding or not adhering to the strategic direction of the organization. This weakness can lead to a disconnect between the management team and employees, eventually resulting in low morale, poor performance, and a bad work climate.

5) Jon Snow, the Resilient

Pledging his loyalty over his personal goals, Jon Snow is a strategic leader who successfully manages various unforeseen situations and constantly evolving environments. By overcoming multiple challenges and adversities, Jon demonstrates resilience. In the realm of talent management, he represents the type of leader who can quickly adapt to changes, remaining steadfast in adversity while encouraging his team members to do the same. An excellent sail adjuster in the storm, Jon Snow is a perfect example of a leader emerging strong from complex situations and keeping the course despite turbulence.

6) Tyrion Lannister, the Adaptable

Tyrion is arguably one of the most cunning and skillful characters in the series. He possesses a great capacity for adaptation to the constantly evolving situations in Game of Thrones. Just as Tyrion transforms to adapt to the politics of Westeros, an effective leader must be able to evolve and adapt to changes in the business landscape. Thus, drawing inspiration from Tyrion might mean being ready to rethink strategies and push boundaries to foster a culture of adaptability and resilience.

7) Samwell Tarly, the Wise

Samwell, nicknamed “Sam,” is known in the saga for his insatiable thirst for knowledge. He has always been underestimated, yet without him, the battle against the white walkers would have been lost. In an environment where physical strength is often prized, Sam relies on intellect, proving time and again his invaluable utility in crucial situations. This same curiosity and eagerness for knowledge can be found in talent management. Sam could represent a business leader who understands the importance of continuous training and lifelong learning to anticipate market evolution, stay competitive, and encourage professional development among employees.

8) Lord Varys, the Master of Whispers

Exceptionally adept at managing crisis situations, Lord Varys stands out for his skill in gathering and disseminating information in a way that furthers his ends while remaining discreet. Just like a talented talent manager, Varys has a cunning way of working behind the scenes to positively influence the course of events and highlight the value of people around him. A good master of whispers like Varys is always one step ahead thanks to solid connections.

9) Gendry, the Apprentice

Gendry illustrates the journey of an individual who, through his apprenticeship and passion, has mastered a complex and demanding craft. His story emphasizes the importance of training, skill development, and autonomy. In a professional setting, Gendry represents the talents who, through their unique skills and independent spirit, make things happen in their own way, injecting valuable know-how into the heart of their companies.

III — Servant leaders

Ser Davos Seaworth, Tormund Giantsbane, Podrick Payne, Hodor, les Dothrakis et les Immaculés.

Servant leaders are primarily guided by the desire to serve others rather than personal ambition. Their goal is to ensure the development, happiness, and success of their teams. They are often very attentive to the well-being and concerns of their subordinates, remain accessible, and are ready to listen. Their decisions are made taking into account the collective interest as much as possible rather than individual or personal interest. They place the well-being of others before their own interests, which can translate into personal sacrifices to help others succeed.

• STRENGTHS: Servant leaders have a great listening capacity, they are approachable and attentive to the emotions and feelings of their colleagues. They are particularly concerned with ensuring that others are physically, mentally, and emotionally able to perform their tasks. They are recognized for their empathetic approach to all aspects of leadership. They value the voice and contributions of everyone, which can help build a strongly united and cohesive team. Their loyalty towards their team is often unshakeable; they are ready to fight for their rights and support them in difficult situations.
• WEAKNESSES: Despite their many qualities, servant leaders can also encounter difficulties. Indeed, their desire to help can sometimes lead them to take on too many responsibilities on their shoulders, to such an extent that they neglect their own needs or forget the principles of delegation. Moreover, their empathy and desire for consensus can lead them to avoid conflicts, even when they are necessary or inevitable. Finally, despite their dedication, their modesty and rejection of authority can sometimes lead them to be perceived as lacking authority or leadership, which can harm their ability to inspire or lead others.

10) Ser Davos Seaworth, the Loyal

A perfect example of a humble yet effective leader, Ser Davos Seaworth is guided by loyalty and a strong sense of duty. Although he does not seek to lead, he often finds himself taking the helm simply because he is the best person for the job. He can adapt to all situations, showing loyalty to those who deserve it and to his principles. In talent management, Davos reminds us of the importance of being fair, loyal, and integral, essential qualities for establishing trust and leading by example.

11) Tormund Giantsbane, the Protector

As rough as he is loyal, Tormund perfectly represents those leaders who prioritize the needs of their teams. His main concern is the safety and well-being of his people, illustrating the idea that the success of an organization depends on the satisfaction and fulfillment of its members. In a work environment, leaders like Tormund have the potential to create an atmosphere of trust and mutual loyalty, thus promoting engagement and productivity.

12) Podrick Payne, the Servant

Podrick, in his role as a devoted squire, symbolizes those team members whose silent but essential work facilitates the achievement of collective goals. In the context of talent management, he reminds us of the importance of recognizing and valuing all types of contributions, including those that may seem less visible but are just as vital for the smooth operation of the company. For a leader, it is crucial to identify these “Podricks” and ensure their motivation and professional satisfaction.

13) Hodor, the Faithful

Hodor is a character devoted in the purest sense. Without personal ambition, he still carries a massive burden that is essential to the survival of his group. His unwavering loyalty and perseverance are inspiring examples. In talent management, Hodor symbolizes the importance of a strong sense of duty and unwavering determination. He shows that every team member has a role to play, and sometimes, the least glamorous roles are the most crucial. He also highlights the necessity of effective communication and recognizing everyone’s contributions to the success of the whole.

14) The Dothrakis and the Unsullied, the Warriors

The Dothrakis and the Unsullied are among the ‘servant leaders’ because they follow Daenerys not because of power or status but because she respects and cares for them, putting their needs above her own. They are an eloquent example that mutual respect and trust are key elements in the leader-team member relationship.

IV — Resilient leaders

Eddard Stark, Sansa Stark, Arya Stark, Jamie Lannister, Ygritte, Jorah Mormont.

These leaders perfectly embody what the word “resilience” means. They have not only survived but thrived in the face of extreme adversities. Their difficult life experiences and personal challenges have strengthened their leadership skills, offering them a real lesson in perseverance, tenacity, and survival spirit. These leaders know how to straighten the course and stay centered even in the most turbulent situations. They use their difficulties as a lever to bounce back even stronger. They understand the risks, anticipate obstacles, and consider contingencies. Above all, resilient leaders are endowed with great strength of character and great self-confidence, firmly believing in their ability to overcome challenges. They are a brilliant example for their teams of how to transform trials into opportunities for growth.

• STRENGTHS: Resilient leaders possess incredible tenacity that allows them to overcome obstacles and failures. They have the ability to bounce back after major setbacks, often with greater determination and a keen sense of perseverance. Their ability to adapt in response to difficult circumstances makes them extremely skilled at navigating uncertainty and driving change. They also inspire their teams with their courage and determination and are often seen as excellent models of resilience.
• WEAKNESSES: This strength can sometimes turn into a weakness if not balanced by other essential skills and qualities. For example, they may become so focused on overcoming challenges that they forget to take care of themselves, which can lead to burnout or health issues. Moreover, they can also sometimes be too rigid in their determination to combat adversity, which can make them less open to new ideas or changes in direction. Finally, their will to overcome obstacles can sometimes lead them to neglect or minimize the impact of problems on their team, which can lead to morale or well-being issues within the team.

15) Eddard Stark, the Guardian

Eddard, often known as Ned, is renowned for his unwavering sense of honor and justice. Despite challenges and opposition, he insisted on leading in a righteous and moral manner, which earned the respect of his men. His leadership style can be inspiring for those who believe in the importance of maintaining integrity and fundamental values despite obstacles or challenges. Moreover, Ned’s highlights the crucial role a leader plays in protecting and defending his team or organization. In the corporate world, this could be seen as the hallmark of a strong leader, determined to adhere to a solid work ethic and fundamental values to guide his team.

16) Sansa Stark, the Survivor

Raised in comfort and naivety, Sansa Stark had to quickly learn the nuances of leadership through her experience. Her ability to learn and adapt in the face of unfavorable situations is a reminder that challenges often lead to development. She represents the importance of evolution and growth in leadership and evokes the idea that leadership can be an acquired skill and not necessarily an innate quality. She reminds us that leadership can be a learned skill, not necessarily an inherent trait.

17) Arya Stark, the Fearless

From a little girl to a “Faceless” warrior, Arya’s journey is an excellent example of the importance of continuous training and mentorship. Arya exemplifies what it means to be a transformational leader. She starts as a young girl in Game of Thrones, but through experiences and challenges, she reinvents herself and grows to accomplish remarkable things. This transformation could be likened to the professional growth of an employee in a company. Like Arya, employees have potential that, once discovered and nurtured through training and mentorship opportunities, can lead them to achieve notable accomplishments.

18) Jamie, the Repentant

Jamie represents a leader who has undergone a major leadership transformation throughout the series. Initially perceived as arrogant and self-centered, Jamie grows to become a more empathetic and dedicated leader. This kind of development reminds us of the importance of continuous leadership evolution, and the importance of reflection and adaptation in the face of challenges. Like Jamie, leaders must be open to change and adaptation to drive their team towards success.

19) Jorah Mormont, the Devoted

Jorah exemplifies the resilient leader who tirelessly pursues his goal despite obstacles and setbacks. Disgraced and exiled by his own family, he finds new loyalty towards Daenerys Targaryen, to whom he becomes a faithful advisor. His unwavering devotion and loyalty make him a pillar of trust and counsel for Daenerys. In the realm of talent management, a leader like Jorah reminds us of the importance of resilience in the face of challenges on the path to success, as well as the power of loyalty and dedication as drivers of organizational value and effectiveness.

20) Ygritte, the Intrepid

Ygritte symbolizes perseverance and courage — essential qualities for any leader. Despite constant challenges and uncertainty, she never backs down and always dares to take risks. Like Ygritte, any leader in talent management must be ready to face difficult situations and make bold decisions for the good of their team and the future of their organization. Moreover, with her famous line “You know nothing, Jon Snow.”, Ygritte reminds leaders that it’s crucial to always be willing to learn and grow, regardless of their position or experience.

V — Manipulative leaders

Cersei Lannister, Littlefinger, Lady Olenna Tyrell, le Roi de la Nuit.

These leaders use a power-driven approach to achieve their goals. They often exploit manipulation, cunning, and intrigue to navigate organizational dynamics, eliminate competitors, and increase their own power. Sometimes seen as calculating and cunning, their determination to win at all costs can often lead to ethically questionable actions and potentially damaging strategies. Despite a rapid ascent to the top, this style of leadership can foster a culture of mistrust and fear, and may ultimately alienate allies and key stakeholders.

• STRENGTHS: Manipulative leaders are often admired for their ingenuity, dynamism, and ability to advance their careers through their skill in maneuvering in complex political environments. They are often capable of persuading and influencing others to their advantage, even when working against those individuals’ interests. They also demonstrate great resilience in the face of opposition and an unwavering determination to achieve their ends.
• WEAKNESSES: Despite their rapid rise to authority and success, this style of leadership is often ethically questionable and can ultimately backfire. Manipulative leaders can engender resentment, mistrust, and a lack of loyalty within their team. Moreover, their fixation on power and victory can make them blind to the needs and interests of their collaborators, contributing to a toxic work culture. Additionally, they may also find themselves isolated and vulnerable, as their behavior can make them perceived as unreliable and disloyal. Finally, the reactive and short-term nature of their strategies can jeopardize their organization in the long run.

21) Cersei Lannister, theTactician

Cersei epitomizes a leadership style based on control, political power, and calculation. She skillfully uses her cunning to navigate the complex political intrigues of the court and assert herself as queen. Despite her many adversities, Cersei is an example of resilience, demonstrating that even in the most competitive environment, a well-crafted strategy and unwavering determination can lead to positions of strength. Her ability to outsmart her opponents and anticipate their moves demonstrates the importance of thinking strategically and making bold decisions when leading an organization.

22) Littlefinger, the Cunning

Littlefinger, known for his secret intrigues and manipulations, is a striking example of the power tactics that can be employed in a professional setting. With a goal-oriented strategic mind, he masters the art of persuasion and maneuvering to achieve his objectives. His approach can serve as a lesson in understanding how a clear strategic vision and plan can help navigate successfully through complex situations. It underscores the importance of planning and adaptability in talent management. However, his leadership style also depicts the risks of engaging in destructive power plays in an operational environment.

23) Lady Olenna Tyrell, the Observer

Lady Olenna is the perfect example of a leader who actively works behind the scenes. Known for her subtle political maneuvers and sharp wit, she always positions her family in a place of strength, all with style and sophistication. Her ability to influence outcomes without being in the spotlight can serve as a reminder to leaders in any sector: sometimes, true power lies in discreet tactics and backstage networking.

24) The Night King

The Night King, with his formidable ability to convert masses into servants, is a reminder of the importance of influence and authority in leadership. However, his authoritarian, impersonal, and manipulative approach highlights the dangers of management that does not respect individuals and their motivations. Like Cersei and Littlefinger, he uses power and manipulation to achieve his ends. His conversion of others into ‘zombies’ may symbolize toxic leaders who create a negative work environment, leading to demotivation and a lack of productivity among their teams.

VI — Accidental leaders

Theon Greyjoy, Brienne de Torth.

Unlike traditional leaders, these characters did not arrive at their leadership position through an intense pursuit of power or a deliberate climb up the ladder. Instead, they found themselves in leadership roles by accident, coincidence, or sheer necessity of the situation. Whether it’s filling a void left by a missing leader, assuming a leadership role due to a crisis, or simply being the most competent person available at a given moment, these inadvertent leaders often had to learn how to be leaders along the way. Far from having formal leadership training or a prior aspiration to lead, these accidental leaders are often those who are pushed by others or circumstances to take on leadership responsibilities.

• STRENGTHS: Accidental leaders have a unique strength in that they often possess strong character qualities like authenticity and integrity, stemming from their non-ambitious disposition. They are selfless and focused on the needs of others more than their personal goals. Their leadership is not driven by ego or power but by concern for the well-being of others or the good of the whole. Moreover, they can often be trusted to make decisions based on what is best for their team or organization, and not based on what is best for themselves. Finally, they are often highly regarded, respected, and valued by those they lead, precisely because they are seen as not seeking to serve their personal interests.
• WEAKNESSES: However, being a leader by accident can also have certain weaknesses. They might not have a clear vision or strategic direction due to their unplanned entry into leadership. They may also lack confidence in themselves because of their lack of leadership experience or their lack of aspiration to lead. Unwittingly, they might also be reluctant to delegate, feeling that they must do everything themselves, or be hesitant to assert themselves or make tough decisions for fear of being perceived as too authoritarian. Moreover, they may struggle to balance the expectations and demands of their leadership role with their own needs and personal aspirations. Over the long term, this can lead to professional burnout, resentment, or a lack of satisfaction.

25) Theon Greyjoy, the Doomed

Theon’s trajectory is a perfect example of the effects of poorly advised strategic choices and a lack of clear direction. His chaotic journey highlights the importance, for a leader, of assessing the implications of their actions and remaining true to their commitments. In the realm of talent management, he reminds us of the importance of stability, loyalty, and a coherent vision for the motivation and performance of team members. It also underscores the necessity of good communication and expectation management to avoid misunderstanding and conflict.

26) Brienne de Torth, the Knight

The loyal and honorable Brienne of Tarth symbolizes the strength of dedication and commitment to those she serves. Her bravery, unwavering loyalty, and keen sense of duty make her an inspiring figure. Although often underestimated, her natural leadership and indomitable spirit shine through, proving that a leader can emerge even from the most unexpected circumstances. Like Brienne, your role as a talent manager is not only to confront your adversaries head-on but also to protect the interests of your recruits.

VII — The advisors

Melisandre, Daario Naharis.

These characters play a crucial role, albeit often overlooked, in organizations. As advisors, they bring valuable expertise, specialized knowledge, and strategic insight to the decision-making table. They are often the quiet force behind many successful leaders, discreetly influencing the course of events through their insight, deep understanding, and sharp strategic sense. In addition to their specific technical knowledge, they have a solid understanding of the business context and organizational dynamics, allowing them to provide practical and actionable advice. These characteristics make them essential players in navigating through complex challenges and optimizing growth opportunities. Fundamentally, they help clarify complex issues, formulate relevant solutions, identify growth opportunities, and avoid potential risks.

• STRENGTHS: They stand out for their in-depth knowledge in one or more areas, which allows them to provide valuable advice and significantly contribute to planning and decision-making. Their vast knowledge enables them to have a global vision and an extensive understanding of the potential consequences of different actions. This makes them invaluable assets to any team, and their opinion is often respected and considered by leaders. Moreover, they are often able to see perspectives or details that others might miss, which can be crucial for avoiding mistakes and misunderstandings, and ensuring that the right decisions are made in a timely manner.
• WEAKNESSES: Despite their skills and expertise, advisors can sometimes struggle to blend into a team, especially if they are focused on their area of expertise. This can make them less approachable or less in tune with the team dynamics, which could lead to conflicts or misunderstandings. Moreover, although they are excellent in their field, they can sometimes get bogged down in theories or ideas that are not entirely applicable in practice. As a result, they may need to work to ensure that their advice takes into account practical realities and the inherent limitations of each situation. Finally, if their main focus is on advising rather than leading, they might also struggle to adhere to the long-term goals of the organization or project, especially if they do not align with their own goals or interests.

27) Melisandre, the Priestess

Melisandre, the Red Priestess, is a key advisory figure in the Game of Thrones series. Her presence symbolizes the use of intuition, spirituality, and belief in a predestined path. In talent management, Melisandre embodies the role of those who guide leaders towards a vision, even when the path is not explorable or clear. Her influence on various characters demonstrates the power of perception and conviction in motivating people towards a given goal. Similarly, in the business world, a visionary leader can be a crucial catalyst for inspiring the team and pushing it to exceed its limits to achieve the company’s objective.

28) Daario Naharis, the Warrior

Daario Naharis, as Daenerys’s advisor, perfectly illustrates the valuable role of an external consultant within an organization. Armed with unmatched knowledge and understanding of the battlefield, Daario provides Daenerys with precious strategic insights, helping to maneuver effectively in uncertain situations. Just like Daario, an external consultant can bring unique expertise and a fresh perspective on the challenges the company faces, contributing to the formulation of winning strategies. However, just like Daario who has his own ambitions, an external consultant may have their own goals that do not always align with those of the organization. This underscores the importance of effectively managing these relationships by ensuring expectations are aligned and objectives clarified.

Towards intelligent talent management

The universe of Game of Thrones is an endless source of lessons in leadership and talent management. As we navigate the tumultuous regions of Westeros, we can examine different management styles, discover the impact of these approaches on the effectiveness and cohesion of a team, and understand how they can be adapted to the business world.

Whether it’s transformational leaders, such as Daenerys Targaryen or Bran Stark, strategic leaders like Jon Snow or Tyrion Lannister, or resilient leaders such as Sansa Stark and Arya Stark, each leadership method has its own strengths and challenges. Other figures, such as Ned Stark, Theon Greyjoy, and Cersei Lannister, also remind us of the importance of values and ethics in decision-making and wielding power.

It is by bringing these elements together into a single, comprehensive yet flexible vision that a leader can truly shine. This requires a combination of courage and restraint, strategic thinking and attention to detail, ambition, and humility. But as in the series, no one style of leadership is superior to others. Each approach has its own benefits and drawbacks. This is what makes the world of leadership so complex and challenging.

Conclusion

What Game of Thrones proves is that behind the most discreet collaborators, there may be the leader capable of transforming your organization. Success depends not only on the ability to lead but also on the ability to inspire, motivate, and value those around you. This is where the true strength of a leader lies. From this perspective, the adventure of talent management is just as exciting and thrilling as the conquest of the Seven Kingdoms.

What about you? Which GoT character is closest to your management style: a Ned Stark, honest and valiant, or a bit more Cersei Lannister, determined and ready to do anything for power? But remember: “When you play the game of thrones, you win or you die. There is no middle ground.” So, play wisely, and may the best win. Share your answer!

[Article written on October 23, 2023, by Jeremy Lamri with the support of the Open AI GPT-4 algorithm for about 20%. Generative images created with Adobe Firefly Beta, 2023. GoT photos belong to HBO].

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