Do These Three Things to Help Transform Your Culture

By: Kathy Kent Toney, CEO & Founder of Kent Business Solutions

Photo by RF._.studio from Pexels

How does a business leader transform their culture for success?

Many executives, unfortunately, don't have an answer to this question, but knowing the answer is all-important, especially when undertaking digital transformation initiatives.

A recent study by Boston Consulting Group (BCG) discovered that organizations that emphasized culture were five times more apt to achieve breakthrough performance than those that ignored culture. Yet, many business leaders are unsure of how to create these types of cultures.

That’s why my strategic partner, Michael Cantu of Accelerate, suggests the following three things a business leader can do to help transform your culture for success.

By the way, if you’re not a fan of digital transformation, these ideas can help any organization!

1. Encourage Your Team to Talk About Everyday Matters

Let your team members know there won't be any repercussions for talking about what’s on their minds. Companies do best when they’ve created a culture where employees can come to management anytime and talk about their concerns or ideas.

2. Create an Expectation You Will Be Asking Your Team for Feedback

Ask your employees regularly for ideas on the best way to do something. Doing so helps them understand that their feedback is vital and requires them to participate within the business actively.

3. Act Upon Those Items

It's a good idea to talk with your employees about why you can't necessarily do what they're requesting right now. Then, make sure you give them a why. You would still want to keep their suggestion as a viable option and revisit it over time.

Other Things to Think About

Radical Acceptance

One over-arching aspect companies would do best to keep in mind is practicing radical acceptance of their employees. Everyone has differing thoughts and ideas, and many people are afraid of voicing their own opinions or beliefs. This discipline involves accepting each team member's uniqueness.

How to Handle People Stuck in Their Ways

Have one-on-one conversations with employees who appear that they don’t want to change. During these meetings, it's crucial to create a safe place for them so you can discover reasons for their unwillingness to comply. You may be surprised to learn that some are willing to change. There may only be a disconnect in leaders’ minds.  

Next, ask them how you can help them become more adaptable to change. Some answers may be out of their control, but it's helpful if you can redirect them to what is within their power.

If they refuse to change, consider looking for replacements. Bringing in others who champion the type of culture you want can help make your DX efforts run smoother than otherwise.

Before you start replacing people, Michael Cantu has some advice:

“I’ve rarely seen anyone that has been closed off when you talk to them, from a managerial perspective, who didn't open up when they realized their job could potentially be on the line. Either they have started looking for another job—because they don't want to change and do what's required—or they stepped up.”

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Are you interested in learning more about this topic? Well, you'll a perfect opportunity to do just that!


Michael Cantu and I are excited to announce that our new book, No-Nonsense Digital Transformation, will be launching on Amazon on Wednesday, November 17!  We talk about this very topic in the book, including how to build exceptional teams that deliver what's promised.

One final note: if you purchase before November 17, you can still catch the pre-buy sale price of $2.99. Don't miss your chance! Click the button below to get started! 

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