A coherent strategy: "Full speed ahead".
Imagine embarking on an adventure with a sailing ship without knowing where you are going, who is on board, which crew member will take on which role, how much time you have for your journey, what resources are available and what the expected weather will be like. Unimaginable. It is just as important to define a coherent strategy before each change and to coordinate it with the crew, because only then will you be able to sail "full speed ahead".
A clear target picture: "Where is the journey going?"
What do you do on the high seas without a compass and what do you do in the change process without a target picture? A clear target picture helps to reach the destination and to find the hidden treasure chest in the end. Even if sometimes detours have to be made or storms mastered; your crew will be rewarded with a grandiose result at the finish.
A strong crew: "The protective wall of the harbour".
A skipper has to consider a whole range of criteria when putting together a crew for a long voyage. In addition to sailing experience, the fitness of the crew members, their reliability, resilience and ability to work in a team, there are a few other important aspects to consider. A strong crew knows each other well, supports each other and trusts each other. Taking crew fears and concerns seriously and working together to address them creates a supportive atmosphere where every crew member can give their best. And don't forget to sing a sailor's hit or two along the way to keep spirits high.
A suitable method: "The secure knot".
There are numerous methods and models for implementing a successful change project. So choose the ideal method for your next pirate adventure and apply it consistently and tailored to your needs.
Reflect regularly: "The wind for your sails".
In times of great change, there is usually little time for reflecting on your actions. Especially in these phases, however, reflection is more important than ever and failure to do so can have serious consequences. For a successful change project, it is therefore crucial whether and to what extent the crew and captain are prepared to reflect on their behaviour. Ideally, reflections are nothing new for your crew members.
Conclusion:
Successfully mastering big changes can be learned, even if every change brings a new adventure. With good preparation, this journey can be made a fun and enriching experience. So grab your crew, put on your life jackets and bravely dive into the waves of change. Together you can overcome any challenge and in the end look back happily on what you have achieved. I for one am glad to have a great crew by my side and very much look forward to continuing to learn which success factors pull best for the change culture in the company.
Until then, I wish you a "safe journey and always a hand's breadth of water under your keel".
