organizational alignment part 2

“Full conformity is possible only in the cemetery.”

Stalin

I know this is an unusual quote to use especially when it comes to talking about business.

But when i talk about business I talk a lot about organizational alignment.

And I recognize that “getting people to do it the company way” is truly critical to success.

But. Here is the deal.

It is more important that an organization understand where the organization wants to go than it is for everyone to do exactly the same thing.Thought-Leadership-787948

Sure. You want everyone to do some things all the same way.

But. Great organizations have some attributes of autonomy.

It’s kind of like managing a pendulum. A little controlled swing is good. If you keep everyone locked down on the important things (which probably aren’t actual “doing things” but rather attitudinal) then ultimately the pendulum gives everyone a little personal responsibility and leeway which makes the organization slightly more flexible in its approach to business (and customers). And, frankly, it helps create a more well rounded personality for the organization (or company or brand whatever you want to call it) in the marketplace. (I have a follow up post on the new decentralized management model on the horizon)

So. Organizational behavior control freaks beware. The only time you will get an organization to conform to everything is probably when the organization has one foot in the grave.

note: organizational alignment part 1 can be found in running a business part 2. whew. confusing.

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Written by Bruce