It would be the dream of a lifetime to be called up to the stage as the winner of the best picture category at the Oscars. Imagine having the opportunity to thank the people who believed in you and helped you get there.
And then you find out it was all a mistake.
That is exactly what happened at the 2017 Academy Awards. Warren Beatty was accidentally given the envelope for best actress, which was for Emma Stone and La La Land. After a confused reaction, he announced La La Land for best picture. Unfortunately, it was actually Moonlight that really won best picture. It made for an awkward and embarrassing moment at the awards. You can read about it here.
While I feel bad for all involved, I do believe that there is something that leaders can learn from this event.
Don’t be afraid to ask for more information.
Warren Beatty was obviously confused by the appearance of Emma Stone’s name. He knew something was off. While it would have been awkward to check to make sure that he had the right envelope, it would have been less awkward than what actually happened. If something seems strange, don’t be afraid to ask for more information.
Mistakes will happen.
It is not a matter of if mistakes will happen but when mistakes happen. If you set yourself up for the standard of perfection, you will be deeply disappointed. Mistakes will happen, whether small or great. They may be your fault or someone on your team, but it will happen.
It is not a matter of if mistakes will happen but when mistakes happen. Share on XBe graceful.
Obviously the people from La La Land were disappointed when they found out about the mistake. They were probably angry as well. But I thought they were pretty graceful in the moment. It may not be possible to avoid mistakes, but when you are the victim of the mistake, you have a choice of how you will respond. The temptation will be to vent but that will only make the mistake more serious.
Take ownership.
Warren Beatty could have probably avoided this. But once it happened, he came clean about what took place. The company that is responsible for the mistake has owned the mistake. If you are the one responsible, don’t try to protect yourself. Owning a mistake will do more to grow your integrity and credibility than if you had tried to side step it.
