Training Blog

If you want to change an
organization, you start by changing the patterns in which people talk
together, the things they talk about, the frequency of their contact and
the makeup of those who overhear them.” –Art Kleiner, Who Really Matters

I would add: Start doing those things before you need
acceptance for a new initiative.

Change
Chips Are Earned Up Front

Most change models start at the point where someone shares a new
vision or plan, then asks for enthusiastic support. But we’re all poker
players (whether we know it or not). We spend time unconsciously earning
or collecting chips based on the frequency and quality of our
interactions. When it comes time to ask for something, that stack of
chips can mean a make-it-or-break-it hand. It looks like this:

So What Does This Mean?

If we’re in a position to initiate something new or different, the
time we’ve invested  building solid relationships can determine our
ability to gain support and moment.  The leader who spends time playing
corporate video poker may revel in his individual genius–but lacks the
relational chips needed to convert that genius into action.

What are you doing today to build the stack necessary for a
successful change?

Are you “starting change before it starts?”