On Sunday night, 60 Minutes ran a segment titled The Maestro: James Levine. It was Bob Simon‘s last segment before his untimely death in a car accident a few weeks ago. The universe being what it is, it seems appropriate that the man who loved opera would leave us with a wonderful piece about the director of the Metropolitan Opera in New York City.

What does this have to do with leadership?

One of Mr. Levine’s passions is working with the singers. In the segment, he is shown working with some of the up-and-comers, the next generation of opera stars.

When asked why they enjoy being coached by Mr. Levine, one of the performers commented:

“He gives you confidence.”

Bob Simon added:

“He always tells them how good they are before pointing out how they can and must do better.”

Simon asked Mr. Levine if he ever yells, really sceams at the singers. I loved the response from Mr. Levine:

“I don’t scream at people. You like it if people scream at you? Well, I don’t scream at people and people don’t scream at me.”

Simon observed:

“Instead, they sing their hearts out for him.”

What a great lesson for leaders in all arenas!

Instill confidence in your followers. Patiently teach them, pointing out what they are doing well before asking for more. Don’t yell at them; encourage them.

Your followers will sing their hearts out for you, too.