When an organization hires me to do a culture assessment, I often imagine it’s similar to when I might hire a closet organizer—as in “This closet is a mess and I need some help to turn things around.”
Unlike tackling my closet, when I step into an organization, the patterns that are present and how one might change them become very clear to me. That’s because I am a pair of outside eyes, trained to spot these things. Just as I occasionally need a professional to straighten out the disarray and identify solutions to the everyday clutter I face, organizations call me in because this is what I do every day; I sort things out.
Endless Ocean Coaching is a service that helps shift workplace and people dynamics so that new, better outcomes can be achieved. Many of the clients that I work with value accountability, are receptive to learning new perspectives and skills, and know that bigger rewards come with change and hard work.
One of my favorite quotes is:
The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results.” -
Attributed to Albert Einstein, but likely apocryphal
It just might be time to try something lovely and new…
Change starts at the top.
There is nothing more irritating to staff than asking them to change, but not doing the hard work to change yourself. Leaders that want to shift the culture, must start with individual coaching for themselves first. This means that leaders get a chance to reflect on their own leadership in an empowering and healthy way. They also have the opportunity to brainstorm new ways of doing things, that will often lead to improved results when put into practice.
One of the things that I love about coaching, is that you learn new, more enjoyable ways to experience all aspects of work life, and things that used to cause stress, suddenly don’t trigger the same reactions. Oddly enough, leaders often think this will take months to witness, but most clients experience this shift even within the first few weeks.
Know in your heart that change is a good thing.
One thing I have noticed is that the word “change” seems to terrify people. They think they would rather suffer the old ways, than move into unknown territory…even if it would lead to a better future. But the truth is, change is almost always for the better.
I know that many companies have implemented “changes” and transitions that were not handled well. That’s why it’s important to make culture change the best experience for all involved. This means, when we get started with an organization, we are transparent with everyone as to why we are there and what they can expect in the coming months. We know that each person is important for creating a new pattern and a better work environment. If we saw “change” as healthy, empowering and hope-inspiring, we might all feel excited for it!
The really gigantic shift in perspective is realizing that your staff is your biggest asset.
People have endless potential! I love people and I love developing them into their best selves even more. Employees reflect the company; they represent the collective values, vision, and future of the organization they work for. So, seeing the staff as your greatest asset is key to growing into a more successful company.
Each person has a unique contribution to make to your company, and with some support, that greatness can be unfolded. However, many leaders (myself included) didn’t initially learn how to empower people so that we can access these amazing qualities and gifts. We have much to learn about how to bring out the best in people, in loving and healthy ways. This type of training will make sure that your organization stands out in your community and your industry.
If you feel the process of changing things in your organization is an intimidating task, but you think it’s “culture closet” could use a makeover, have no fear. The team at Endless Ocean Coaching is here for your culture transformation needs. Signup now for our free consultation to talk about what the future could look like for your organization.
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