TRANSFORMATION
from LEADERSHIP
BY ALEX STIEHL
We’ve all heard a variation of a quote from Einstein “The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.” With the rapid change in technology and the way business is done, an organisation that wants to get to the top or even remain at the top must constantly look for ways to adapt and transform to meet the new economy.
One of the best ways for an organisation to create a culture that can constantly adapt is to develop our employees into a workforce of leaders. Create a leadership culture.
Leadership is not just for management or the top executives. Cultural change must take part at all levels, from the top executives all the way to the worker bees. A leadership culture creates a learning environment and includes everyone at all levels, therefore training and development must be considered for all of them. A continuous developmental program that is designed to engage employees on a daily basis is a fantastic tool that will inspire and motivate them.
Some of the most innovative and successful companies schedule times during their day, each day, for their employees to have opportunities to learn and to grow. Then they get together on a regular basis to discuss the principles they have learned as each brings a different perspective to the situation.
Whichever learning model you choose, I believe that there are 3 main areas to focus on developing: Equip; Empower; and Engage.
Equip: The right tools and the right information.
For anyone to reach a level or mastery, they must be given the right tools and the right information to succeed. I often find that employees are trained merely on the technical aspects of business, the science side. However, don’t forget to equip them with the art side of business and leadership, the soft-skills, as both are necessary to have a leadership culture. If only the science side is taught, you will end up with a lot of managers. When your employees are correctly equipped they will be able to make decisions quickly and more accurately.
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Leadership
46 | TRAINING MAGAZINE EUROPE MARCH 2015