More than one enthusiastic new CEO has told me “I plan to announce my vision at our first staff meeting” (usually said with a grin - sort of like “announce my presence with authority”). My general rule is that I don’t provide advice unless asked, and when I have been asked by a new CEO about this plan I have said “Well, you might consider holding off on that for a while.” … [Read more...] about You Can’t Announce a Shared Vision
vision-setting
Don’t Throw Away Your Shot
The popular “leading change” approach created by Dr. John Kotter – which I have been teaching for years – is focused on initiating a change with a “sense of urgency” and a Vision for the future. I get that and agree, but I am going to add something to his model the next time I teach it – and that is balancing Urgency with Timing. If you have a sense of urgency about a … [Read more...] about Don’t Throw Away Your Shot
Audacious Visions
Your organization may be going through some very challenging times right now. In the midst of uncertainty and challenge, a Vision for the future is ever more important. The most powerful Visions are developed by asking stakeholders about their dreams and aspirations, and then crafting a Vision that reflects that and inspires them. Visions look beyond the current … [Read more...] about Audacious Visions
Adaptation vs Revolution
Adapting to changes in the environment can be a very important thing to do. In fact, after having recently spent a week in The Galapagos Islands – where Charles Darwin did extensive research – the importance of a species adapting to their environment was stressed by the nature guides there. The same is true for organizations. Organizations which are unable to adapt to … [Read more...] about Adaptation vs Revolution
The Importance of All Stakeholders
You might think that only the “senior” people in your organization feel like they have a “stake” in its current operations and future. You would be wrong. I have heard all of the excuses. “They don’t know enough about the substance of the issues to provide input.” “They don’t really care.” “We already know what they think.” Wrong, Wrong, and Wrong. There are … [Read more...] about The Importance of All Stakeholders