Sunday, May 5, 2013

A631.6.4.RB - Transformational Strategies


Both of the videos seemed to highlight leadership techniques described in the book, but they are different in terms of approach and execution. “Mattress Mack” realized that his organization needed change to stay relevant and profitable. He used techniques in the book like the strategy culture matrix to assess the employees performance, their strengths and weaknesses, and how to improve in these areas. Jim sought to understand why his company was failing, the root cause of the problem, and fix it through transformational change. He utilized different tactics and approaches to this change by ensuring that his employees were well trained to deal with the change, equipped them with the tools they needed to satisfy the customer and keep them returning, and also made sure that everything they did could be measured. Jim used change management to see his company through this transformation. I think it paid off quite nicely for him and his team.

General McChrystal talked about the foundation of an effective team. He didn’t talk specifically about approaches in leadership, but did talk about ways in which to grow as a leader and stay relevant. In his experiences, the military and its leaders helped shape General McChrystal’s views on leadership and teams. He explained that leaders are allowed to fail and watching your team go through events without having control is the hardest thing he has ever had to do, but ultimately it made him a better person. I feel like General McChrystal’s leadership traits align with the core characteristics of any good organization and culture, involving risk, support, autonomy, openness, and sensitivity. The culture that he built on his teams revolves around relationships, trust, support, and teamwork.

I feel that both Jim and General McChrystal are both effective leaders with extensive experience in change management and transformation. Although from different backgrounds, they both lead their teams through change for the betterment of their organizations, which is not an easy task. Communication, strategy, teamwork, trust, and effective decision making all play a huge part in the success of managing change on any level. 

No comments:

Post a Comment