Q: Teams the world over....the same or different?

Working with a new international client today I was reminded that the same issues occur the world over. This client was quite refreshing; being more aware than most, he realised he had a leadership issue on his hands, evidenced by how a particular team was behaving. 

As he described each situation in more and more detail, I actually started panicking! I was thinking “what on earth is the way out of this…”. I felt completely out of my depth.

I remember taking a deep breath and thinking “ok … go back to first principles”. And it came to me, that the same approach applies even if the situation or the players are different.

Going back to first principles means starting with co-creating a clear vision, one that applies to the current context i.e. not a lofty or distant company vision, one that is relevant to the current situation.

Vision is the first step in our Rapid Change Methodology – a methodology to bring people with you through change. And purpose/vision is the first step in CoachWise, which equips you with the skills to have conversations with people through change.

And creating that vision together is the key, whether between this client and the leader of the team in question, whether it is with the team itself, or between the internal team and the external agency.

Of course, I expect some of you are already dismissing the idea. One client said, “Not sure about this vision thing – we aren’t heading for some misty coloured euphoria, we have only a few changes to make and we are almost there”.

I understand this resistance. I have personally been exposed to outside consultants myself many times. Often they work with you on Vision, Mission and Vaues. It feels wooden, mechanistic.

The same client now talks about vision all the time, in different contexts, as he puts it “You win, I get it!”.

What we do is “in the bones”.  When people leave our workshops they are crystal clear on what they are collectively trying to achieve. And they are excited and motivated.  They are emotionally attached to the outcome. No wonder it produces the kind of engagement that others envy.

So if you have a situation where people aren’t being as effective as they could be, and you are open to trying something different, then get in touch with us. And be prepared for a long standing relationship with us as you see the value we will bring.

Contact us to find out more