|
Benefiting from Disruption |
|
|
|
|
Monday August 11, 2008
 Topic: Management
Reference: Moriarity, Maureen. “Workplace Coach: Wanted strong managers for chaos at work”. Seattle Post-Intelligencer. http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/business/365381_workcoach02.html. July 1, 2008.
A down market creates a worst of times scenario in business. The markets are generally gloomy, prices rise, service declines, and people generally worry more about everything. Good managers everywhere are looking for an edge, as down markets showcase the best managers and the difference that they really make. In the referenced article the commentator stated it best, “during trauma, drama, and chaos, they (managers) discern priorities and rally the troops with best strategies for solution.” She offers some good advice about the tool kit needed for managing in difficult times. In the article she cites the (1) the need to challenge the perspective and assumptions by gathering new and different information; (2) adapting the company’s visions and strategies where necessary; (3) use the disruption to challenge “business as usual” and to create more opportunities for success; (4) Seek out, reward, train, and promote creative leaders who challenge the status quo for the betterment of the organization; and (5) demonstrate appreciation for small efforts and contributions. While there is not a lot of new ground here, #3 offers an interesting perspective for turning a bad situation into favorable outcomes. “Challenge the organization to find ways to make life easier for everyone.” To me that is where the magic is; where the silver lining enables the black cloud to make sense. I have already adopted this approach and I believe that another benefit is it focuses attention on something attainable that is independent of the business cycle. Process clean ups are ideal for these times. Determine where your organization has the greatest need for process improvements and address them now. Make business disruptions work for you as opposed to against you. I would love to hear your approach to managing in these challenging times as well.
|
