The Role of the Leader in Culture Transformation
Last month, we shared how an organization’s culture can effectively change and transform when a caring environment is established. Culture transformation shifts the compartmentalization of the organization, promoting the alignment of all team members to support and advance the vision and goals. The role of the leader is imperative as they embody inclusion, value diversity, and act fairly while exemplifying transformative and strategic thinking. Leaders committed to culture transformation value the business case for DEI and its influence on innovation and creativity. Transformative leaders understand the importance of modeling flexibility and consistently embracing the arc of change.
We believe that to establish a positive culture of transformation, the leader must become self-aware and reflective instead of reactive when addressing culture concerns. They must be mindful of how they show up and adhere to change requirements. The individual leader sparks the change they desire to see within the organization. If leaders aren't on board with the vision, progress is limited. The leader must also understand that transformation is a long-haul undertaking and will not happen overnight; diligence and perseverance are critical to results. Leaders who desire a culture shift are also willing to establish a co-creation mentality throughout the process, allowing employees to have a voice in establishing a caring environment that actively promotes belonging. Forbes, 2021
The Role of the Leader
- Garners employees' trust by being transparent and accessible, assuring employees their presence and input are essential.
- Gives the executive team and employees permission to share honest feedback and adjust to the transformation process by answering questions and setting expectations.
- Guides the organization's efforts to effectively implement diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging practices that further inform the organization's mission.
- Gathers data and reviews pertinent analytics to identify themes and trends that inform strategic priorities.
- Gains perspective from the leadership team and employees through effective listening and intentional engagement opportunities.
The KEIRUS Way to Cooperative Leadership Engagement
At KEIRUS BY KJE, we create a safe space for leaders to express their concerns about the issues this transformation process will reveal. The leader must be willing to release some level of control. Throughout our engagement with organizations, we build client intimacy without judgement, to co-manage the nuances of the process. We use a coaching approach to cascade down and prepare them to roll out the process to their team; making sure they are equipped to lead their team by example.
The benefits to our methodology were made evident during a partnership with a senior executive who desired positive change but was unsure about the process of getting there. Favoritism and a toxic culture prevented the budding of an inclusive environment. We focused on building a positive culture before addressing the DEI component. With sensitivity to the exposure of their organizational pain points, we handled the leader's transparency concerns with C.A.R.E. to move the needle forward. We encouraged them to express what was hindering full engagement with the process.
Then we committed to:
- Building trust with the executive team.
- Proving our expertise and trustworthiness with employees who had become skeptical about the workplace environment.
- Demonstrating the C.A.R.E. Model to champion the process for their success.
The leader overcame self-imposed obstacles, and the barriers keeping them within the cocoon of change slowly began to dissipate. They realized the ultimate goal was to help them become better leaders who are equipped to positively impact their organization. We guided them in rebuilding their culture, and it transformed in a significant way.
How Do You Want To Transform Your Workplace?
Employee Resource Groups and DEIB Councils
Establish and sustain an ecosystem for DEIB that nurtures innovation, engagement and productivity.
Human-Centered Education and Awareness
Educate and engage employees through interactive learning experiences that help you create a culture of C.A.R.E.
Attract, Develop and Retain Talent with a DEIB Lens
Create and sustain a diverse and inclusive workforce by equipping leaders to integrate DEIB across all talent practices.
Our Blog: Transforming with Care
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