The leader’s No. 1 job is to establish context. This means we must frame how we want others to interpret what is happening. What is the outcome we are trying to achieve together? What stands in our way? What specific roles do each of us play in achieving the outcome?
2) Orchestrate the Experience
It’s time to lose the suit, the tie, and the beige hotel conference room. Great leaders structure how, when, and why we gather. They know that when it comes to innovation, every meeting and every experience helps set an example of the culture we want. What kind of meeting will build more openness, more creativity, and a sense of community?
3) Shape the Conversation
Communication is leadership. The most successful leaders help shape a shared language and practice generative conversations. They understand that transformation is first and foremost a linguistic endeavor driven by dropping the slide shows and truly engaging. They are raw and fearless with their own communication first, which opens the door for others to follow suit.
The fish stinks from the head down. Great cultures start with leaders courageous enough to enroll their people first and change the future second.