CEO’s are struggling to create buy in for new corporate initiatives. As new strategies are launched constantly from Headquarters local operations react with a certain reluctance and skepticism towards initiatives targeting to deal with future challenges.
People are more concerned with day to day challenges like “How am I coping with the endless stream of emails and conference call invites..?” than interested in how they can change their Corporate Values of 2018 into the updated version of 2019. Moreover as the 2018 values did not really sink in anyways.
1. Create local ownership
Energizing events start with creating local ownership. Let your people be part of the program implementation. It sounds like a no-brainer but many times this is being overlooked because of the stressful business environment and the abundance of things we need to do.
2. Demonstrate professionalism
If you are made responsible for a local roll out of an international initiative make sure that all local efforts align the professionalism of the international undertaking. Think of adequate translations, lay out, consultants, briefings, schedules, reports etc. as they are perceived as the tangible quality mirroring the importance of the initiative.
3. Show commitment
Initiative introduced with “This is another thing we need to do from HQ..” the initiative is not likely to fly. Never underestimate yourself as a role model to others – regardless of your job role. If you are not engaged and committed to the succes – who should be?
About the Author: Marja van Soest has been working as a director, trainer, consultant and coach in international Sales, Service and Leadership for over 25 years for a diversity of companies and audiences. Parallel to her business career Marja is a sports trainer specializing in In and Outdoor Cycling. Combining her passion for sports, groups, individual and organizational performance Marja developed a highly effective model on Motivation and Engagement to Activate People and Business: Engage, Empower, Perform, Enjoy. Using this model to empower leaders to build a culture of trust is her inspiration for both business and sports practices.
