Is there an actual or perceived dichotomy between intent and outcome within our recent history? The past several years has provided much in the way of new data to process, while the next few years require applied learnings on the roads back to normalcy.
I have recently been considering what new components we should incorporate into our new roles in the re-emerging market. Depending on your perspective, changes allow for or force a redefinition of the role we each play. Now more than ever, our ability to communicate from a platform of unity over the division is paramount. How we define connectivity through learned experiences will set the course of what we can achieve collectively going forward.
Workspace Connectivity
As offices determine return of either flex, hybrid, or mandated attendance, many employees will evaluate these against lifestyle choices created in the past few years. Will employers consider dramatic outcomes to personal freedoms that have expanded for employees? Will employees view the company’s intent to remain competitive for growth and leverage in-person connectivity for culture and creativity synergies?
The U.S. 2021 Bureau of Labor Statistics data leads to a Harvard Business Review study citing mid-career employees leading the exits. Therefore, both employers and associates must dedicate thoughtful assessment towards incentive, acceptance, and expectation while owning the goal of alignment.
Incorporate the role components of alignment ambassador.
Solution Connectivity
Solving problems is never an easy task, and today supply chain, labor, inflation, and general uncertainty implications are exacerbating desired outcomes. The frustration and tensions mount as opportunity outcomes are missed due to unintended circumstances beyond previously normal controls. We need to get back to yesterday’s expectations while still dealing with today’s realities. This juxtaposition left unaddressed can lead to deterioration in relationships and the development of mistrust, where absolute trust is required.
Incorporate the role components of solutions-minded ambassador.
Creative Connectivity
Historical controls may not be enough to ensure today’s outcome. Being intentional about finding new ways to solve old problems will lead to more significant results faster. Creativity will differentiate and determine future success more quickly than ever before.
Stealing from Plato, “A need or problem encourages creative efforts to solve the problem.” Asking questions is a terrific way to dig deep and explore alternative paths to desired outcomes.
Incorporate the role components of investigative curiosity ambassador.
Communication Connectivity
It has always been true that “when” we say is as important as “what” we say. In many cases outcome is hindered because of specified uncontrollable dynamics. In other instances, unspecified controllable dynamics are the real cause for failed outcomes. Communicating towards building trust in this area is critical in the re-emerging markets.
Therefore, the obstacles limiting historical output must be micro-managed, overly controlled, and communicated frequently. As we gain line of sight to relief or continued constraints, it is more important than ever to communicate honestly so that each party can pivot plans as needed.
Incorporate the role components of communication ambassador.
People Connectivity
Being mindful that human interaction conditioning is needed as we exit virtual for in-person connection. Previously practiced social skills might require a tune-up as we have adopted a more inward perspective during the past several years. It is unlikely that the obstacles in this newly defined market will diminish just because people are getting out and about more frequently.
Failure to produce desired outcomes beyond individual controls will continue to strain us. Balancing in-person interaction while getting our people skills back in tip-top shape will require seeing the best intention in others.
Incorporate the role components of best intention ambassador.
Conclusion
Throughout human history, people have always pulled together and tackled tremendous obstacles and hardships and generally applied learnings that improved societal and individual outcomes. In considering the new components, I am suddenly aware that the principles we were operating on before will be the same principles needed to continue. What was needed then, and even more in demand now, is that we have patience, understanding, and compassion associated with seeing the good intentions in others.
As we answer the question of what components we can bring to our new roles, we must incorporate the role components of connecting good intentions to great outcomes.
Jeff Hendrix
*Vice President Customer Teams, Walmart / Sam’s Club – Bimbo Bakeries USA
*Title and company of the author reflect their position at the time article was written.
The opinions expressed here by guest bloggers are their own, not necessarily those of Stout Executive Search.