Review parts 1 through 15 for details and thinking, then utilize the Recipe for Change.
Part 8 – Comeback
We like to read about comebacks, about people or companies who face near disaster and turn things around. The Ford Motor Company is an example of that. In the 1940s, there was a reluctance by leadership to modernize Ford. In fact, the government nearly took over the company, lest its demise threaten the US war effort. But when Henry Ford II was released from his military duties to run the company, things turned around. Ford became one of the biggest corporations in the world.
Occasionally, we need a comeback or a turnaround. We need to correct wrong directions or compensate for wrong decisions.
But that’s not the end of the story.
As John C. Maxwell states, “Everything rises or falls on Leadership.”
Taking your company and people through change becomes a comeback story in itself. The transition can be very difficult during this turnaround period.
Comebacks are great stories that make the news, making history while propelling companies and people forward. What is your comeback story? Has it been written or is it unfolding?
The Recipe for Change
When you’re baking a cake, there are certain ingredients that are necessary for the cake to come out as planned. You need to follow a step by step procedure. Include all portions as described, mix as indicated, then cook for the optimum time and temperature. Any variation from the recipe may cause an incomplete and utter disaster! If you don’t follow the recipe, you will not get the results you were expecting.
When you’re leading your company and staff through change, a recipe would be very helpful, so here it is:
- You must be totally committed to the change (1 gallon)
- It must be well defined and written (1 pint)
- You must be willing to accept the push back and resistance (1 quart)
- Create the WHY story to sell to sell your staff (Five Pounds)
- Talk to them one-on-one (1 Tablespoon)
- Give them time to adjust mentally to the change (Let Marinate 1 week)
- Let them express their feelings (Snap-Crackle-Pop)
- Set a rollout date for the change to occur (Cook Time 10 Days)
- Have many training sessions before rollout (Mixing steps)
- Establish the change as a habit (Tasting the results)
This is a quick and simple recipe for change. Follow the ingredients and steps, and see what results you will achieve. Review parts 1 through 15 for more details and thinking.
Management is the formula.
Leadership is the essential catalyst.
You are the stick that stirs the ingredients.