Building Shared Vision
Through extensive research in his organizational development doctorate work and over 25 years of consulting experience, Neil Goldman has consolidated the lessons of some of the sharpest business thinkers worldwide.
The Shared Vision/Distinction Model enables organizations to build passion, common purpose, and growing success.
Consider the bottom graphic at right. Vision-Driven leadership (and shared vision) is a critical component in any company’s success. Is everyone on the same page? Is every oar rowing in the same direction? The three components listed – mission, values, and vision – are key ingredients in organizational success and written about extensively. Gaining less attention, but also fundamental to company success are the four elements on the middle graphic. Consider each in turn:
1. Focus. You know the adage. “If you try to be everything to everyone, you end up being … nothing to anyone.” This first rule has plagued many companies for years. Think of the most successful organizations in most industries. Chances are they are focused, with potentially a narrow and defined niche, and/or are known for a specific attribute or quality (brand identity) that they maintain religiously. Apple – innovation. Honda — quality. BMW – the ultimate driving experience. Wal-Mart – “always the low price.”
2. Employee Experience. Company associates create the user or customer experience. There may not be a direct line from happy employees to happy customers, but a good customer experience without dedicated, engaged employees is virtually impossible.
3. Customer Experience. Advocacy research proves customer/member loyalty and satisfaction drives financial performance. And word of mouth is a primary driver of organic growth. To what extent do you know your user’s experience?
4. Relevant Distinction. Knowing how you can provide specific, targeted, relevant services in a unique, and distinctly better way is what true leadership is all about. It is also what branding is all about. Remember the old adage: if you are not distinct, you will be extinct.
The Shared Vision/Distinction Model provides the means to assess and build each component above (and at right) in your organization. Contact GCS for more information today.
Better Decisions.
Better Leadership.
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