Business School Netherlands (BSN) champions innovative leadership through its focus on practical applications in business. A recent webinar on driving culture change, led by Michael Davids, Chief Operating Officer at The Culture Factor Africa, emphasised the crucial role of aligning organisational culture with strategic objectives. Michael discussed how leaders must foster trust within their teams to ensure successful culture change. “People in the organisation must deeply trust that leaders will follow through on what they promise when driving change”, says Michael. Trust is not just a foundational element; it’s the glue that binds the strategic and cultural facets of an organisation. Leaders are encouraged to build trust by being transparent and consistent in their actions and communication.
Strategies for driving culture change
The synergy between strategy and culture within an organisation is likened to the interconnected wheels of a bicycle, as Michael illustrated. This analogy effectively captures the need for balance and alignment between direction (strategy) and momentum (culture). For an organisation to move forward, its leaders must ensure that cultural initiatives are not only launched but are also strategically aligned with the organisation’s long-term goals. This approach underscores BSN’s curriculum that equips leaders to not only envision but also execute substantial organisational transformations.
Fostering an environment for change
Change is often met with resistance, both overt and subtle. Michael highlighted the importance of creating an environment that minimises anxiety and promotes psychological safety, making it easier for employees to engage in transformative processes. This involves clear communication, the demonstration of change benefits, and an inclusive approach that involves all stakeholders. Leaders must exemplify the change they wish to see, acting as role models to inspire their teams and reinforce the culture of continuous improvement and adaptability.
BSN is committed to creating great leaders equipped to face today’s challenges and tomorrow’s opportunities. Our webinars explore the four pillars of leadership—Responsible Leadership, Performance Leadership, Decision-making Leadership, and Change Leadership—providing a robust framework for addressing diverse leadership challenges. Each session is designed not only to discuss theoretical insights but also to offer practical tools that participants can implement immediately to enhance their leadership effectiveness.
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