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To Change or
not to Change By Craig A. Steffen
“We’ve
never done it that way before.” “Stay
the course.” “This has always
worked for us before.” “Dance with
the one who brung ya.”
These
are all common platitudes we’ve heard before. Virtually
every company has either uttered these words or demonstrated them at one time or another. There is something to be said for being steady,
for sticking with something and for not changing just for change’s sake. But there is also the danger that passivity can
set in and become the source of failure.
In
this year’s League Championship Series in baseball’s American League, we got to
see a painful example of an organization on the brink of victory, only to be brought to
stunning defeat by a stubborn refusal to change. Its
easy for leadership, media and fans to blame these failures on “curses” or
“mystique,” but the more realistic observer can identify a more common cause.
The
Boston manager was in a great position going into the decisive game of the series, he had
his best pitcher ready to go. In true
competitive style, his ace mowed down the opposition inning after inning. With just 6 outs to go to the championship of the
league, something crucial in the scenario changed. Boston’s
pitcher was weary. He was being asked to
perform longer than at any other time all year.
Objective
observers could all see it was time for a change. Perhaps
the only two people who could not see the handwriting on the wall were the Boston pitcher
and manager – they were caught up in the competition and the passionate desire to
win. So they stayed the course – no
change despite overwhelming evidence to suggest it.
The lead was squandered, and defeat ultimately ensued.
There
are vivid lessons here for our businesses:
- Practices
that work do so because they are right for the circumstances. When circumstances change (internally or
externally) change must be considered.
- Recognizing
changes in the market can be difficult. Listen
to outside observers.
- Cultivating
a willingness to change must be done BEFORE you’re in the heat of battle.
- Every
player on your team and every tool in your competitive approach are important. Consider them all.
- An
exceptional talent who is exhausted will not help you win.
- Doing
the unexpected is a valuable competitive advantage.
- Team
input is critical, but leaders must still lead.
Paraclete Consulting can assist you in evaluating your
markets, competitors and products. Our fresh perspective and creative approach can
lead you to a winning strategy. Give us a call for a free initial consultation.
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