“But you need to understand, our business is very unique …”
Over the past 20 years, I have heard this from many, many (many) leaders.
Across all industries.
Across major sectors … public, private and not-for-profit.
Across professional services … law, consulting and engineering.
Throughout communities, countries, cultures and regions.
Everywhere.
The backdrop of these conversations is usually when leaders are on the precipice of a major change or transformation.
The natural human instinct can often be to look for reasons as to why it won’t work.
… As opposed to why it will work, that it’s essential, and that it will be great in the long run.
So – instead of focusing on ALL the reasons why a big change WON’T work … as organisation is unique / different / complex … Let’s focus on what they have in common.
BUSINESS SITUATION
- Increasingly complex business ecosystems
- Rapidly evolving customer expectations
- Ever growing and shifting markets
- Increased influence of technologies
- Disruption – external and internal
- Shifting organisational models, design and structure
- Simultaneous cost and growth pressures
LEADERSHIP NEEDS
- Mindset shift – flexible, adaptive and agile
- Alignment – purpose / strategy / activity
- Ability to better engage / be engaged
- Better focus and prioritisation
- Better understanding of business realities
- Attract and retain talent
- Continually learn, grow
- Build better relationships
CULTURAL / PEOPLE NEEDS
- Clarity and direction
- Meaning / purpose
- Feel valued
- Be able to contribute
- Realistically engaged
- Recognition of success
- More balanced due to being
- Less constantly busy
- Smarter / faster
Therefore…
If many of these themes sound familiar, therein lies the opportunity to be on the front foot.
Instead of being a ‘recipient’ of these trends, get ahead. No matter what the type, size, shape of your business or organisation.
Continuously…
- Be aware of your business situation. What’s really happening around us?
- Know the evolving purpose of your business. Why does it exist?
- Be clear about your ambitions. How big do we want to think?
- Know your direction. Where do we want to go, now and in the future?
- Know your focus. What are our major areas of strategic focus?
- Decide on the necessary leadership. What mindset do we all need?
And then apply all of these as lenses, all the time.
Transformation.
