As leaders, we often say, “The only constant in this world is change.”
If you agree that is the case, then why would you be the exception?
I have to be honest. I had someone ask me that question a few years ago, and it was like getting hit over the head with a brick. We as leaders and I as a coach always talk about change. So when I couldn’t answer how I was changing, I realized it was time to…CHANGE!
Why should we be exempt from change? More importantly, why should our businesses and brands be exempt from change?
When I think of change from a business and leadership perspective, my thoughts go right to distinction and relevance.
- How do we distinguish ourselves and our businesses from competitors?
- How are we staying relevant in an ever-changing world?
- Won’t we become extinct if we don’t change?
Let me answer a few of those.
None of us should ever be exempt from change, but we as leaders need to set the example. I am not saying to change just for the sake of change. I am saying we need to lead the charge in creating change that puts gaps between us and other leaders and competitors.
Remember Blockbuster?
Need I say more?
Our businesses and brands should always be changing, growing, and reinventing.
Distinction and relevance for us should equal increased demand.
As I discuss in my Leaders’ Ladder talks, we must always be advancing our vision and the vision of our organization. This also should be an ongoing conversation between you and those you lead. You might be surprised how much they can add to this conversation. That is, unless you want to go the way Blockbuster went.
How do we stay relevant today?
It all starts with change: changing your products, changing your services, and maybe even changing you. We can change our market, change our customers, and even change our image. Are you doing this now? I find most are not.
How can we as leaders implement all of this into our culture?
First, it is going to take some talent, work ethic, openness to creativity. Some of it will require salesmanship on our part. Just like in anything else, you want people to follow you.
Sell the vision, sell the reason, and sell the benefits.
In some cases, it will cost money as well. Investment of time and money will be critical in your mission to be distinctive and relevant.
Today, extinction is more the rule than the exception.
It should be your mission as a leader to lead the charge – for change – in your organization.
Dave Ferguson
is “The Leaders’ Coach”, an internationally recognized executive leadership coach, speaker, facilitator, and author. Are you interested in talking to Dave about coaching or having Dave speak to inspire and motivate your team? “ASK COACH DAVE” at 704-907-0171 or at Dave@AskCoachDave.com.
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