Corporate Transitions
Perhaps the most important and distinguishing aspect of our corporate work is that we optimize the relationship between individual responsibility and ongoing organizational performance. For over 30 years, I have worked closely with CEOs, executive teams, entrepreneurs, managers and professionals of all types.
There is no mystery surrounding success or accomplishment. The principles and practices for running a successful organization are well documented. Leadership, communication, vision, purpose, strategy, teamwork, etc. are all in the crosshairs of seasoned executives. But what has these “parts” come together successfully? What’s the “secret sauce”? Here’s the way we see it.
If you have a leadership role in your organization, I’m speaking directly to you. Because above all else, you know that you must bring your “A” game every day, to every meeting, to every conversation. As a leader, you know that it’s your job to listen, collaborate and provide direction. In almost every case where we see sustained high levels of performance and results, there is an effective connection between a leader/manager and those tasked with fulfilling the company’s vision.
In order to establish and maintain this “connection,”we encourage the establishment of the following four principles as a platform for success:
1. Communication is a responsibility, not an option.
2. Leaders/managers are responsible for creating an environment where employees can do their best.
3. Employees commit to the notion that their organization has a right to expect that employees will always operate in the best interest of the organization.
4. Each member of the organization is committed to causing a set of future outcomes/results that could not and would not occur without their intentional best efforts.
Once these principles are in place, organizations can and should focus on:
1. A clear Vision/Mission: People need to know what future they are committed to fulfilling.
2. A clear Strategy for accomplishing the objectives of the Vision/Mission
3. Collaboration/Partnership: People need to experience that they are all on the same team. Creating a win/win culture should be a centerpiece of all communication initiatives.
4. Building an Executive Team: These individuals weigh all initiatives and actions based on what’s in the best interest of the entire organization, rather than through the lens of their individual accountabilities.
5. Effective Communication: While transparency and inclusiveness are important variables in establishing effective communication, the key is maintaining INTEGRITY in communication. Organizations must build a culture where people are authentically committed to what they say. A promise is a promise. A commitment is a commitment.