Global Workplace & Sustainable Business Model Blog

Effectively Managing Change

Growing Your Business | Global Strategic Management Solutions

Are successful leaders going to excel, regardless of the times in which they lead?  Some may say yes. Afterall, Jack Welch lead General Electric through both solid and turbulent times, right? But hold on a moment.  
 
In the last two years, we have seen countless top executives stumped (and many of them have later failed) when trying to maneuver through this changing environment.  At the same time, some companies have taken the recent rough waters and, even given a shrinking industry or seemingly impossible sales slump, have turned their companies around.  
 
Let's look at some of the characteristics that are embraced by leaders (and their organizations) in changing times. 
 
Using Organizational Memory
In less turbulent times, lessons learned in the past could be called on as wisdom for decisions made in the present.  These days the past should not be counted on for the wisdom it once offered.  The playing field has changed, and you will not be able to count on those lessons to lead you through.  Of course, they still have value.  They just can't lead the way anymore.  
 
Innovative leaders do still use the past to inform decisions, but they don't count on those old lessons to show them the way.  

Remaining Committed to Change
Being committed to change could mean that you are continuously changing.  Consider those organizations that are always bouncing from one production methodology to another, continually trying out new supply chain management systems or can't seem to get enough of the latest management fads.  No, remaining committed to change means making a change and committing to it.  The new direction may not be the panacea that you are looking for, but you won't know until you have given the new plan time to take hold.  

Learning at the Speed of Light
The world is changing at a faster pace than ever before.  Imagine the significant changes we've seen in how we use technology in our daily business, even in the last eight to 10 years!  Ask yourself what you need to learn, and how you can push yourself into new knowledge areas.  This will keep you growing and evolving.  Most of all, it will mean that you will be more prepared for making the next set of decisions that come your way.  
 
Tapping the Group Genius-or the Hidden Genius in the Group
Change is not best made alone.  Let's face it; you may be the leader in your department or organization, but you need the troops to get involved.  These days, the most powerful contributions often come from the most unexpected places.  You may find a hidden genius in your group or a collective genius, aka: your customer!

Your change leadership mindset gives you the tools to consider ideas from every corner, in order to address the current climate with a large dose of courage, informed risk-taking and ambition.

Learn more about our change management assessements and workshops.