Culture Building Through Internal Influencers
by Jonathan Jones
As you begin to shape the culture of your organization, think about the people who will have the most impact. Include rank-and-file employees, their supervisors and yourself in this group.
A good culture builder will employ people not only for acceptable functional fit, but also the ability to become influencers regardless of their positions if given proper, proactive coaching. A salesperson, receptionist, administrative assistant and computer programmer can all be considered experts in their respective fields of expertise.
Expect each of these expert workers to exert influence over others in their departments and to enhance performance. When they make improvements in their areas, they make improvements in your business. Hire only those candidates who demonstrate a genuine interest in the job and a desire to contribute to the creation of an organization that they can be proud to work for. Put them in position, make sure they understand your expectations and then LET THEM GO! Encourage their ideas and put them into action so that everyone can benefit.
Make a list of the individuals in your company who may influence others toward positive change by their example and attitude. Then establish a target for yourself to raise the number of active influencers in your organization by the end of the year. By investing the necessary time and resources in developing the finest capabilities of your top employees, you will be able to establish a more productive and lucrative culture inside your organization.
Jonathan Jones (Jonathan.jones@vistagechair.com or 314-608-0783) is a CEO peer group chair/coach for Vistage International.