Lessons from the Candela C-8

On Monday, my husband and I went for a test drive on an extraordinary boat – it’s electric-powered, hydrofoils, and is both fast and efficient. The Candela C-8 cruises at 21 knots, boasts a range of over 50 nautical miles, and glides smoothly over the water with almost no noise. You can have a conversation at a normal volume, even at high speeds – a rare treat in powerboating. As we “landed” at the creek’s mouth, we marveled at the calm and peaceful experience, a stark contrast to the adrenaline-heavy rides typical of traditional speedboats.

As a tech enthusiast and someone who works in leadership development, I found Candela’s approach fascinating for more than just its technology. In leadership, as in cutting-edge innovation, there are valuable lessons to be learned from those who pioneer new paths. I’ve spent years working with tech executives who are striving to lead their teams through uncharted waters. Just like Candela, companies that prioritize a strategic vision, nurture an engaged culture, and understand their audience are often the ones that make a lasting impact.

Lessons from Candela’s Innovation

Candela’s approach to boating showcases principles I emphasize with my clients:

1. Engagement and Enthusiasm

Candela’s team members were clearly passionate about their work and knowledgeable about the product. When I coach leaders in tech, I encourage them to foster a similar culture where team members feel engaged and aligned with the company’s mission. An engaged team doesn’t just deliver results – they drive innovation and create a supportive environment.

2. Strategic Focus

Candela has focused on a select few products – ferries and day cruisers – and is committed to refining them. In leadership, I stress the importance of strategic focus. Just like Candela’s streamlined product line, tech leaders who focus on core strengths and deliberate refinement often outperform those who spread themselves too thin.

3. Effective Communication and Marketing

Candela understands that a unique product like theirs requires a hands-on experience to be fully appreciated. They tailor their marketing to capture this, just as I help leaders tailor their messages to resonate with their teams and stakeholders. Effective leadership is often about translating complex ideas into something relatable, so people can see the value.

By incorporating these principles, I’ve seen leaders in the tech industry transform their teams and maximize their impact – just as Candela is revolutionizing the boating world.