Launch Event April 28th

The Secret Sauce for Leading Transformational Change Launch Event

Five Key Takeaways

 

During our discussion with several esteemed transformational experts, we covered a lot of ground. Throughout our first Launch Event, we discussed what constitutes transformational change, shared examples from several esteemed business leaders, and provided practical tips you can implement in your daily practices at work. Here’s a recap of the five key takeaways from The Secret Sauce for Leading Transformational Change Launch Event:

 

Foster innovation at every level.

The first key takeaway from The Secret Sauce for Leading Transformational Change Launch Event is to create a vision and foster innovation with individuals throughout your organization. Include and engage employees so they feel valued. During our discussion, Mira Kim, CEO & Owner of American Solar Corporation, emphasized the importance of practicing servant leadership and “listening to team members at every level of your organization” throughout the transformational change process. Bob Schimmenti, President of TrueNorth Partners LLC, echoed this sentiment, explaining that “it’s important to empower others who are closer to the work to innovate and collaborate.” Become a supporter and provide your team with the resources they need to flourish. If you unlock the potential, the results will follow.

 

Remember it’s a journey.

The second key takeaway from our Launch Event is to remember that the transformational change process truly is a journey. Start by assessing your organization’s culture to identify what elements you need to keep and what areas you need to evolve. Then, determine what steps you can take to get the change you implement to stick. As Ian Ziskin, President of EXec EXcel Group LLC & Co-Founder of C4C, noted, “most large-scale transformational change stories suggest we need to move faster than we feel comfortable doing to implement successful change. The people who are leading the change often feel it’s moving too slowly, while the people being affected by the change often feel it’s moving too quickly.” Speed is important, but you have to take the time to find the right rhythm and get everyone on board. After all, transformational change doesn’t happen overnight.

 

Focus on behaviors, not just results.

The third key takeaway from The Secret Sauce for Leading Transformational Change Launch Event is to pay attention to the behaviors of your team. Often, people immediately want to focus on where the results are, but it’s crucial to focus on the behaviors in your organization as well. “Meeting performance numbers is very important, but these goals can create organizational silos,” Bob Schimmenti shared. Instead, look for opportunities to promote collaboration and build an environment that supports innovation. While you certainly should monitor your progress and celebrate successes, make sure you also celebrate the change you see in your team’s behaviors. This is how you reinforce transformational change.

 

Transformational change isn’t a one-person job.

The fourth key takeaway to remember is that the lofty transformational change initiative isn’t something one person should try to tackle alone. It’s important to employ the right team and find people who have a growth mindset. “Look for individuals who see obstacles as opportunities,” Cheryl Perkins, President & CEO of Innovationedge, suggests. Find a few champions on your team that will support your vision. Then, “create a sense of curiosity within your team and support them while they learn,” Mira Kim, CEO & Owner of American Solar Corporation, encourages. Start enrolling them into the process so they can become a part of it.

 

Build a support network.

The final key takeaway from The Secret Sauce for Leading Transformational Change Launch Event is to build a support network. Find a coach or a mentor to listen and provide objective advice. It’s important to have a sounding board as you navigate transformational change in your organization so you can look at things from different perspectives. “You have to solicit others to help you and focus on self-learning as a leader throughout your journey,” Bob Schimmenti shared. Seek out experts who can share their knowledge and their wisdom with you and your organization.