Next week is Valentine’s Day, and I’m again pondering the challenge of leading a new initiative – from a relationship perspective.
In my work with leaders driving high-stakes strategies, I find that when people aren’t aligned, progress will stall. Much like that awkward moment when two people on a dance floor bump into each other.
Heightened uncertainty these days about where the world is heading can cause lovers as well as employees and partners to question whether they’ve really found their match.
Many people steer clear of anyone who is trying to push, control, coerce, or chase them, leaving some leaders feeling frustrated in their attempts to get people to join them for a new strategy.
“Commitment phobia” can occur when a person is asked to buy into someone else’s plan, regardless of their understanding, beliefs, and purpose.
Just like any dance, choreographed or not, two people on a dance floor need to establish a level of trust before the possibility of lasting romance unfolds.
In the same way, even the BEST strategy will FAIL if people are unclear, skeptical, or not aligned to take action.
Getting aligned takes more than just TELLING people your big new idea. To accelerate results, leaders need to INSPIRE people to take action.
This is why I find that getting your strategic positioning right is so important.
Your strategic positioning clarifies what you stand for, the problems you solve, and who you solve them for. It helps others know quickly why they should engage with you. And it builds trust.
Are your employees and volunteers clear on your new strategy? Do your suppliers and funders understand why you are making a shift? Do they understand and believe in your new direction enough to follow your lead as you pivot?
If not, stop and take a breath. Jumpstart an effort to clarify the fundamentals of your strategic position. Help your team and partners understand the problem you are solving, and where you are going. Despite how excited you are about your new direction, take the time to build alignment.
You’ll find this “dance” is worth it.
I welcome your thoughts!
— Susan
This article is part of my newsletter, “Driving a New Direction,” to equip and energize leaders with practical ways to move forward, whether you’re leading a new strategy or getting one back on track. Subscribe if you’d like insights like this once or twice a month.
Explore my website to learn more about my upcoming book “FastTrack Your Big Idea!” and how you might leverage De-Risk System for Impact℠ workshops. Or message me and let’s connect! susan.schramm@gotomarketimpact.com
