Make Things Better
In the fall of 2018, Women in Manufacturing asked me to speak at their national summit in Indianapolis, IN. The theme of the conference was Making an Impact. This event sparked a new initiative we call, “Make Things Better.” This is my way of asking others to accompany me on a journey to improve workplace culture. The idea came to me after I spoke at WiM because so many ladies related to my story. They all had similar experiences to share. When I tell my story of turning around the family business, I explain that as manufacturers, we make things. But we all have the opportunity to make things better.
Two years later, I continue to share my story. For a while, COVID-19 prevented me from meeting people in person. So, I decided to write a book. I’m excited to share that I will be publishing Leading with Grit and Grace soon! This book is meant to be a gift to anyone looking to improve their corporate culture. In manufacturing, command-and-control became the main leadership style during the Industrial Revolution. Today, advances in technology demand change and change happens very quickly.
In my experience, I’ve found that a coach approach leadership style was more effective. I needed employees to feel empowered to make decisions that improved their work and processes. This change in leadership style allowed Onex to become more efficient and agile. The added benefit? As we improved our internal trust and respect as an organization, we were happier in our work. This gave us a contagious enthusiasm when interacting with clients. Improving our processes made us want to help others improve theirs. We’ve been delighted to notice a ripple effect.
Lessons to Lead By
The journey to organizational culture change starts with you! As a leader, you must have the courage to take the road less traveled. When you identify that change is necessary, you must do what is right. The journey will not be easy. It will be filled with twists, turns, and lots of potholes to navigate. You will have plenty of mountains to climb. Knowing that life is full of adversity, prepare to forge ahead! But don’t forget to celebrate successes along the way.
Others will join you on the journey. As a leader, you must inspire personnel to solve problems while continuously improving processes. Don’t hide the failures but learn from them. You will become more innovative and creative with each iteration. As the leader, you must check your ego at the door. Know that you do not have all the answers. Allow those closest to the problem to help you solve it. Everyone wants to feel their work is important. So, just ask their opinion and wait patiently and quietly to listen for their answer.
With a lot of determination, resilience, and persistence (Grit) while leading with empathy and compassion (Grace), you will accomplish goals you once thought were unattainable. In all that you do, remember to make things better!
Are you feeling inspired to make the necessary changes to make things better?
Reach out and let’s have a conversation!