Most leaders have read the works of Jim Collins about having the right people on the bus. And for all intents and purposes, I agree with this. But how often to we really understand the design of our bus, and what happens when the people we had in our sixteen-passenger van can’t handle the reality of a full size bus?

Each year companies set out on a quest to formulate a strategic plan that will help them accomplish the goals for the following year or two. We talk about long-range plans, changes in the marketplace and how the economy is going to help or hinder us. We even talk about people in the organization and if “they” have what it takes to continue down the path to success. However, we rarely talk about the people in the room. Many have gotten there through tenure, ownership status or just by chance, and a few have been hired specifically for the current need of the organization.

We have to stop talking about “they” and start talking about “us.” We, the leaders and our team members, have to get real about our abilities and shortcomings. If we can’t have candid conversations and be vulnerable about our talents, as well as our weaknesses, we will never move a company forward.

Transparency and inspirational leaders are two competencies Goleman talks about in Primal Leadership. What are you doing as a leader to foster a culture of transparency and how are you, not they, lighting fires of inspiration to move your company forward?

Want to know more about creating a leadership culture throughout your organization? Call us at 480.426.1652 for a complimentary leadership assessment.