Maybe you can relate to this work example…
Jim is set to take over a company, but he is facing pressure from the executives he collaborates with. They believe his ideas for more change and the ongoing need for improved customer service are unnecessary and a waste of time. These executives point out the company’s success over the past decade and see Jim as someone who does not value the company’s past accomplishments and client service. Jim is considering significant changes in processes and wants to build a better connection with clients. He has a dedicated staff that is excited to adopt new ideas and is ready to advance the company.
The example above is sadly more common place than we like to believe.
Many leaders today fear change and cling to the past. Just listen to how they speak every day. Most of these leaders often refer to past achievements because they are not eager to change or learn new ideas. These individuals also keep tasks to themselves because they believe that changing means losing some of their current power. This issue isn’t new, but it is becoming more apparent due to the fast changes in technology and our present culture where the client holds the power.
If you want to be a great leader, you need to approach each day with a vision for the future. Past accomplishments are nice, but it is important to always work at looking ahead and identifying potential opportunities and resolving current needs. Don’t fall into the trap of not learning new concepts on a daily basis. One of the best ways I have found to work with executives who are stuck in the past, is to monitor their productivity. Hopefully, you have a project management system in place and you have assigned tasks to the people you work with. By documenting their progress or lack of progress allows you to manage the process much better. Your role as a leader is to make sure people are engaged in some way.
Next, make sure you really work at building your relationships inside the company. Earning co-workers trust is a huge driver for me. As a leader, you set the tone for the company and remember people are always watching you. Sadly, top executives who are stuck in the past usually have a warped sense of current relationships at your company or have completely disconnected themselves from others.
Finally, don’t waste your time trying to figure out how to change these type of people or confront these people. I know from experience, this type of action can consume your time and produce little if any results. Focus on the people in your company who are the difference-makers. Create a culture where people want to come to work each day and contribute. Work on developing your own strengths and keep looking ahead.
Picture Source: Pixabay