
It is a classic concept that hubris precedes the fall. Operational and technical arrogance—the idea that you and/or your organization is smarter than everyone else—is something that every leader needs to be constantly vigilant about. It is not only a signal of possible complacency, but it also runs counter to the process of learning from others and the self-awareness that every leader must foster about themselves, their team, and their business. This arrogance blinds leaders to signals—either obvious or more subtle—of impending concerns, risks, or issues that need their attention. Operational and technical arrogance still occurs in business today, just as it has done over the years.