It isn’t too much of a stretch to assert that our world is going through incredible transformation (not all of it good). For example the breakdown of established institutions, destruction of our planet, developing the technology to save ourselves or destroy ourselves, increased human connection as we start to really see the impacts of our choices and so much more.
Within that macro picture sit those places of work that we ‘go to’ (metaphorically speaking in this hybrid world) every day – our organisations. Many organisations speak of transformation and some actually achieve it. We have now, though, a huge opportunity to really think about what type of organisation are we?
The hybrid working discussion for example can be viewed at a fairly operational, transactional level or it can be viewed as an opportunity to consider what type of employer are we/do we want to be? How do we want to work with and engage our colleagues and how will we translate that into a more trusting, creative and psychologically safe environment?
Additionally, if we take our lead from the macro picture, it’s clear that organisations have the capacity to transform their contribution into one that is genuinely and deeply in support of the greater good. That doesn’t mean ignoring the financials, but it does mean engaging all aspects of who we are and how we function as an entity in support of a greater goal than simply shareholder return or cost reduction.
These levels of transformation require vision, courage and a level of connection to a greater meaning and purpose. We know this is informing the decisions of many people who might be working within an organisation or be considering whether to join. The question is, is it informing the strategic choices, cultural development and values of the organisation itself or is that all too bound up in compliance, financial success and control?
For transformation to really take place we need to be prepared to depart from the tried and tested rules of the past and be prepared to see that a completely different future is possible. Sure we have to plan to some degree and we have to use some tried and tested or ‘conventional’ approaches to bring the transformation about but above all, the time has come to set our sights on something bigger and more impactful than us.
We have to dare to believe that the places where we work can play a meaningful and fundamental part in building a better world for all…if we are prepared to step together, into the transformational pathway that is opening up ahead of us.