Bill Christensen, the CEO of JELD-WEN, believes that change is not optional for companies, and the only choice is whether to lead it or be led by it. He emphasizes that successful transformational change depends on focusing on both people and performance. Without engaging teams in a meaningful way, performance cannot improve, and without strong performance, strategy becomes irrelevant. With 95% of CEOs planning to maintain or accelerate transformational change in 2024, the key to success lies in a rigorous and disciplined approach focused on value creation.
Engaging people beyond their organizational roles is crucial in initiating and sustaining change. Understanding how employees feel about their work environment and what inspires them is essential for building trust and driving transformation success. Proactive conversations, transparency, and building trust through listening are key components of engaging employees in the change process. Listening to teams helps identify areas for improvement, clarify goals, and ensure the right people are in the right positions to achieve success.
Simplifying priorities and focusing on tasks that align with stakeholders’ interests can unlock hidden value in organizations undergoing transformation. By using frameworks like the Eisenhower Matrix to determine what is truly important, leaders can guide their teams towards tasks that contribute to the company’s long-term goals. Setting consistent expectations, creating confidence in the company’s direction, and empowering employees to contribute to a shared future are essential in strengthening performance during change.
When a company prioritizes people and performance, it earns the right to execute a long-term strategy and future-proof its transformation. Building a strong organizational culture that balances empowerment and accountability is crucial for the success of any strategy. Cultivating a culture where leaders do what they promise, and strive for a high “say-do” ratio, ensures that the company has the trust and capabilities to focus on long-term goals. Strong business fundamentals lay the foundation for future success, emphasizing the importance of building the right culture and capabilities to consistently deliver solid performance.
The Forbes Business Council, the leading growth and networking organization for business owners and leaders, offers valuable insights and resources for companies navigating transformational change. As companies plan to maintain or accelerate change in the coming years, prioritizing both people and performance is essential for building a solid foundation and executing a successful long-term growth strategy. By focusing on engagement, simplification, and strategy, companies can adapt to change, drive performance, and thrive in an ever-evolving business landscape.
