Implementing change is a significant aspect of leading organizations, especially when introducing a new vision. As I’ve been writing in recent posts, your behavior is key to success. Authenticity is critical. As change is announced and implemented, people want the straight story—the truthful picture of what’s happening. If the leader has a secret agenda, hidden…
Successful change agents know that many people resist or distrust change, and they need encouragement through the process. As I wrote in my last post, communication is critical. People also need an extra measure of positivity and support. This calls for the leader to have an optimistic outlook and view change as a opportunity, as…
All humans want to feel safe. They need to feel they belong, are cared for and valued at work. Leaders who provide purpose and a trusting environment are in the best position to offer a sense of safety. People feel safe when they can trust their relationships without concerns over politics, personalities and resentments. They…
A strong culture depends on an environment of trust, where people can count on each other, take risks together and benefit from the resulting successes. Leaders who inspire authenticity entice people to step out of their comfort zones and enjoy the spirit of cooperation. Leaders enhance trust when they’re transparent and humble. Display humility by…
What is your organization’s true purpose? Do you post your purpose? Without a fundamental purpose, organizations cannot steer efforts in any general direction. Employees need a reason to serve, shared goals, a common cause and focus. They to know what their organization stands for so they can embrace its stance. This is the foundation of…
As a leader, do you have the essential skill sets to build and maintain a strong culture? Every company, without exception, has a culture. It determines how people act or work, what they believe or stand for and how they respond to pressures and challenges. I wrote about this in my last post. Building and…
Are you building a strong culture? Some companies prosper and draw the business world’s attention. They continuously grow, innovate and impress. In contrast, others struggle, never breaking through to reach their desired success. The latter must deal with downsizing, financial shortfalls, market-share losses and tarnished reputations. The disparities are glaring. While leaders of prosperous companies…
It’s true: all leaders experience drift at some point in their career. But drifting from one’s appointed responsibilities has consequences for leaders, their people and the organization. I know; as a coach, I often see the damages first hand. Leadership drift’s most immediate effects hit the operations level. Leaders who lose track of their purpose…
Business is an active, demanding endeavor. Only those who consistently apply themselves succeed. Organizations that thrive require leaders who actively dream, plan, engage, solve, pursue and network. It’s a lot of work, and there is no finish line. But no one can keep up the pace indefinitely. Every leader experiences profound peaks and valleys, seasons…
Leaders who strive for excellence can lay strong foundations for their organizations. They: Aim for the highest standards, through ethical conduct and honorable motives Are dedicated to the organization’s mission, with support and intentionality Exude reliability, honesty, integrity, diligence and perseverance Honor organizational policies, rules and practices with the structure they provide Are detail-oriented, with…