by Izabela Kramarz | Apr 15, 2023 | Business TransforMentum
In today’s fast-paced business world, the ability to adapt and transform is essential for long-term success. However, many companies struggle with the process of business transformation, often failing to achieve their desired outcomes. The key to success lies in understanding the critical factors that can make or break a transformation initiative. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the essential success factors that every organization must consider when embarking on a business transformation journey. From leadership and culture to technology and innovation, we’ll examine how these key factors can impact the success of your transformation efforts and provide actionable insights to help you navigate the challenges and unlock the full potential of your organization.
There are several critical success factors in business transformations, including:
- Clear Strategy: A clear and well-defined strategy is essential for successful business transformation. The strategy should articulate the organization’s vision, goals, and objectives, and provide a roadmap for achieving them.
- Effective Planning: Effective planning is necessary for translating the strategy into actionable initiatives. The plan should outline the specific activities and resources required to achieve the desired outcomes.
- Communication and Engagement: Effective communication and engagement are critical for ensuring that stakeholders are aligned and committed to the transformation process. This includes communicating the rationale for the transformation, the desired outcomes, and how stakeholders can contribute to its success.
- Effective Leadership: Effective leadership is crucial for providing direction, managing change, allocating resources, fostering collaboration, and ensuring accountability.
- Execution and Measurement: Effective execution and measurement are necessary for ensuring that the transformation plan is implemented in a timely and efficient manner, progress is regularly monitored, stakeholders are held accountable, areas for improvement are identified, and the ROI is realized.
- Culture and Talent: Culture and talent are key enablers of successful business transformation. The organization must have a culture that supports change, innovation, and continuous improvement, and the right talent in place to execute the transformation plan.
- Risk Management: Effective risk management is necessary for identifying and mitigating potential risks and challenges that could impact the success of the transformation.
In summary, the critical success factors in business transformations include a clear strategy, effective planning, communication and engagement, effective leadership, execution and measurement, culture and talent, and risk management. By focusing on these factors, organizations can increase the likelihood of a successful transformation and achieve their desired outcomes.
by Izabela Kramarz | Mar 31, 2023 | Career TransforMentum
“What got you here, will not get you there” is often used in the corporate environment to remind employees that the skills, habits, and attitudes that helped them succeed in their current position may not be enough to help them advance to the next level.
This saying suggests that you need to continually adapt and grow to be successful in your career because what led to your past success may not be enough to continue progressing towards your future goals. While this may be a challenging concept to embrace, it is essential to recognize that change is necessary for growth and development.
I will explore this saying in more detail and look at how it applies to the corporate environment.
What does “What got you here, will not get you there” really mean?
This saying is attributed to business coach Marshall Goldsmith. It refers to the qualities, behaviors, and habits that led to an individual’s current success may not be enough to achieve success at the next level.
For individuals who have been promoted based on their past performance, the idea of changing what worked for them may sound counterintuitive. After all, if their previous approach was successful enough to warrant a promotion, why should they consider altering their strategies or behaviors?
For example, a highly skilled software engineer may have been promoted to a team leader position due to their technical expertise. However, to be successful as a manager, they will need to develop new skills such as leadership, communication, and delegation.
Similarly, a sales representative who is successful in selling to individual customers may struggle to sell to large corporations when promoted to a sales manager position. They will need to learn new skills such as networking, relationship building, and negotiation to succeed in this new role.
It is important to realize that the skills and habits that led to success in one role may not necessarily translate to the next level. As you move up in your career, you will encounter new challenges and responsibilities that require you to adapt and develop new skill sets.
An employee who excels in an individual contributor role may struggle when promoted to a management position that requires them to lead and motivate a team. In this case, the skills that made them a successful individual contributor, such as attention to detail and strong analytical skills, may not be enough to succeed as a manager. Instead, they may need to focus on developing skills such as communication, delegation, and leadership.
Similarly, individuals who have achieved success through hard work and long hours may need to adjust their approach as they progress in their careers. As they take on more responsibility, they may find that working longer hours or pushing themselves harder is no longer sustainable or effective. Instead, they may need to learn to delegate more effectively, prioritize their time, and focus on strategic thinking and decision-making.
Ultimately, the key to continued success is a willingness to embrace change and adapt to new challenges. While it may be tempting to stick with what has worked in the past, individuals who are open to learning and growth are more likely to achieve long-term success and fulfillment in their careers.
Why is this saying important in the corporate environment?
The corporate environment is constantly changing, with new technologies, processes, and challenges emerging all the time. To be successful in this environment, you must be adaptable and willing to learn new skills.
Additionally, as you move up the corporate ladder, you will be faced with new challenges and responsibilities. You will need to develop new skills, behaviors, and attitudes to succeed at each new level.
The corporate environment is highly competitive, with many individuals vying for the same positions. Those who are willing to continually learn and grow will have a better chance of success than those who rely solely on their current skills and abilities.
How can you apply this saying in your career?
To apply this saying in your career, you should focus on developing new skills and behaviors that will help you succeed at the next level. This may involve seeking out new challenges, taking on new responsibilities, and learning from mentors and colleagues.
Some specific strategies that you can use to apply this saying in your career include:
1. Seeking out feedback. Seek out feedback from your managers, colleagues, and other stakeholders to identify areas for improvement. This feedback will help you identify the skills and behaviors you need to develop to succeed at the next level.
2. Building a network. build a network of mentors, colleagues, and other professionals who can provide guidance and support as you develop new skills and behaviors.
3. Taking on new challenges. Seek out new challenges and responsibilities that will help you develop new skills and behaviors. This may involve taking on new projects, volunteering for leadership roles, or seeking out training opportunities.
4. Continuing education. Identify opportunities to learn and grow. This may involve taking courses, attending conferences, or reading books and articles on relevant topics.
In conclusion, the saying “What got you here, will not get you there” is a reminder that we must continually adapt and learn to succeed in our careers. In the corporate environment, where change is constant and competition is fierce, those who are willing to develop new skills and behaviors will have a better chance of success. By seeking out feedback, building a network, taking on new challenges, and continuing their education, you can apply this saying in their careers and achieve their professional goals.
by Izabela Kramarz | Mar 31, 2023 | Career TransforMentum
Receiving feedback that you need to be more strategic can be both constructive and challenging. It means that the person giving you feedback believes that you have potential for improvement and growth in this area, but it can also be overwhelming to know where to start. Here are some steps you can take to address this feedback and become more strategic:
1. Ask for clarification. When receiving feedback, it’s essential to make sure you understand what the person giving the feedback means by “being more strategic.” Ask them to provide specific examples of what they believe you could do differently to be more strategic. This will help you to identify the areas that you need to work on.
2. Analyze the feedback. Once you have a clear understanding of the feedback, take some time to reflect on it. Think about your current approach and determine what you could do differently to be more strategic. Consider the feedback in the context of your current role and responsibilities. If becoming more strategic involves gaining a deeper comprehension of the various business departments within your organization that extend beyond your own, then you should identify individuals who can provide you with access to this knowledge.
3. Discuss with your line manager. If this feedback comes from a stakeholder who is not your line manager, it is important to discuss with your line manager, too to get their feedback and input. Your manager can assist you in identifying any blind spots or areas that you may have overlooked and provide guidance on how to achieve your objectives.
Furthermore, involving your manager in the process can help guarantee that your goals are aligned with the company’s strategic objectives and your current duties. This can aid in identifying and addressing any obstacles in advance. For example, suppose one of the strategic behaviors is to be more of a leader than an individual contributor, and you are still required to complete individual contributor tasks that take up the majority of your time. In that case, you will be unable to deliver. However, discussing this matter with your line manager in advance may assist you in devising solutions to manage the problem.
Alternatively, if you need a larger platform to demonstrate your ability to operate at the director level, you must understand how to construct that platform. Is it possible for you to take on a new project or manage a team? Can you assist someone else with a strategic project?
4. Develop a plan. Once you have analyzed the feedback and identified the areas where you need to improve, develop a plan to address these areas. This plan should include specific actions that you can take to become more strategic. Set measurable goals and timelines to track your progress.
5. Implement the plan. Once you have developed a plan, it’s time to implement it. Focus on taking small steps and making incremental changes over time. Track your progress and adjust your plan as needed.
6. Schedule regular check points to course-correct. It’s important to regularly check in with your key stakeholders to track your progress and make any necessary adjustments or corrections to your plan. This can help you stay on track and make sure that you’re making progress towards your goals. Additionally, it can help you identify any areas where you may need additional support or resources to achieve your objectives.
7. Seek feedback. Throughout the process, seek feedback from others to gauge your progress. Ask for feedback from your supervisor, colleagues, or mentor to ensure that you are on track. Approach a mentor or colleague who is known for their strategic thinking.
By asking your key stakeholders how you can be more strategic, you’ll gain valuable insights and ideas that can help you develop a more strategic approach to your work. You’ll also demonstrate your commitment to collaboration and your willingness to learn and grow as a professional.
Involving input and feedback from your manager, as well as regular check-ins to track your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your plan, will help you stay on track or course-correct if needed. By setting measurable goals and timelines, and involving your manager in the process, you can take concrete steps to improve your strategic skills and contribute more effectively to your organization’s success.
Remember, becoming more strategic is a process that takes time and effort. However, the rewards of investing in your strategic thinking skills can be significant, leading to improved decision-making, increased productivity, greater ability to achieve your goals and objectives, increased visibility, and being seen as
by Izabela Kramarz | Mar 31, 2023 | Career TransforMentum
Congratulations! You’ve been offered a new job, and now it is time to get yourself ready for success. Preparing yourself for the job before actually starting can help you feel more confident and equipped to hit the ground running. Being well-prepared for a new job can provide a significant competitive advantage for several reasons.
Firstly, it demonstrates your professionalism and commitment to the job. By preparing in advance, you are showing your new employer that you take your responsibilities seriously, and that you are eager to hit the ground running. This can make a strong first impression, and help build trust and credibility with your colleagues and superiors.
Secondly, being well-prepared can help you overcome the learning curve more quickly. Starting a new job can be overwhelming, and there is often a lot of information to absorb in a short amount of time. By taking the initiative to learn as much as possible about your new role, your company, and your industry beforehand, you can reduce the time it takes to get up to speed and become productive in your new position. This can make you a more valuable employee and increase your chances of success in the role.
Thirdly, being well-prepared can give you a competitive edge over other candidates who may not have put in as much effort before starting the job. In a highly competitive job market, any advantage you can gain can make a significant difference in your career prospects.
Overall, being well-prepared when starting a new role can set you up for success, help you establish yourself as a valuable team member, and give you a competitive edge in your career.
Here are some tips on how to best prepare for your new job:
1. Research the company. Before you start your new job, it’s important to know as much as you can about the company. Research the company’s mission, vision, and values, and try to understand the company’s culture. Read their website, social media profiles, and press releases. Additionally, if possible, speak with the company’s HR representative or your new manager to gain more insights into the company’s culture. This will give you a better idea of what is expected of you and how you can contribute to the company’s success.
2. Connect with your future colleagues. Take some time to connect with your future colleagues before starting your new job. You can do this by reaching out to them on LinkedIn or other social media platforms. You can also ask your new employer to set up a virtual meeting with your colleagues. This will help you build relationships and get a sense of what it’s like to work with your new team.
3. Network with your team. Whether you’re working remotely or in a hybrid work environment, it’s essential to connect with your team members. Schedule virtual meetings with your colleagues, attend company events and virtual social gatherings, and take advantage of any available opportunities to network and build relationships with your colleagues.
4. Learn about your new role. Before you start your new job, make sure you understand the details of your role. Ask your new employer for a job description and take the time to review it thoroughly. If there are any areas that are unclear, don’t be afraid to ask for clarification. Understanding your role will help you feel more confident and prepared when you start working.
5. Understand your job responsibilities. You have familiarized yourself with the job description, now it the time to understand your manager’s expectations. Before starting your new position, clarify your job responsibilities with your manager. Discuss what good looks like and what your success criteria are. This will help you prioritize your work and better understand what is expected of you.
6. Brush up on your skills. If there are any skills that are required for your new job that you haven’t used in a while, take some time to brush up on them. You can do this by taking online courses or attending workshops. This will help you feel more confident in your abilities and ensure that you are prepared for any challenges that may come your way.
7. Set goals and expectations. Before starting your new job, take some time to set goals for yourself. These goals should be specific, measurable, and achievable. By setting goals, you will have a clear direction and a sense of purpose, which will help you stay motivated and focused. This will help you prioritize your work and better understand what is expected of you. Ensure your goals align with your team’s objectives and your company’s goals.
8. Establish a routine. It’s essential to establish a routine to help you stay organized and focused while working remotely. Determine your work hours, breaks, and work-life boundaries.
9. Familiarize yourself with the technology. If you’re working remotely, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the technology tools you’ll be using for communication and collaboration with your team. Familiarize yourself with tools such as Zoom, Slack, and project management tools.
Preparing for a job before officially taking the position will help you feel more confident and ready to hit the ground running. By researching the company, connecting with your future colleagues, learning about your role, brushing up on your skills, getting organized, and setting goals, you will be well-prepared for your new job and ready to succeed. Remember, it’s crucial to be proactive and establish good habits from the start.
By following these tips, you can get organized and set yourself up for success in your new position, whether you’re working remotely, in a hybrid work environment, or in the office.
by Izabela Kramarz | Mar 31, 2023 | Career TransforMentum
Congratulations on your promotion! You’ve worked hard and your efforts have been recognized. But now that you’ve been promoted, what should you do next?
Getting promoted is a great accomplishment, but it’s just the beginning. By taking the time to understand your new role, build relationships, set clear expectations, and continue to learn and grow, you can make the most of your new position and achieve even greater success in the future.
Remember, the skills and behaviors that led to your success in one role may not be sufficient for success in a new role or at a higher level of responsibility. This is particularly true when it comes to promotions. While promotions are typically seen as a reward for hard work and success in a current role, they also represent a new set of challenges and expectations that require a different approach to work.
There are several reasons why you should work differently after being promoted, including:
- New expectations: As you continue to move up the ladder, the expectations placed on you increase. A promotion may mean taking on more responsibility, leading a team, or managing complex projects. To meet these expectations, you must work differently and develop new skills.
- Expanded perspective: With a promotion comes a broader view of the organization and its goals. This expanded perspective requires a deeper understanding of how different parts of the organization work together and the ability to align priorities and objectives with the overall mission.
- Adaptability: Success in a new role requires the ability to adapt to new challenges, learn new skills, and adjust to different ways of working. What worked in a previous role may not be effective in a new position, so individuals must be willing to try new approaches and be open to feedback.
- Leadership: Promotions often come with leadership responsibilities. Leaders must inspire and motivate their teams, build trust, communicate effectively, and make tough decisions. These skills require a different approach to work than individual contributor roles.
To be successful after a promotion, you must be willing to work differently and adapt to the new challenges and expectations of your role. This may require seeking out new learning opportunities, developing new relationships, and building new skills. It may also require letting go of old habits and approaches that are no longer effective.
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your new role:
- Understand your new responsibilities: Take some time to review your new job description and understand what is expected of you in your new role. Talk to your manager and colleagues to get a better idea of what your new responsibilities will entail.
- Get to know your team: If you’re now managing a team, take the time to get to know each member individually. Learn their strengths and weaknesses and understand how you can support them in their roles.
- Set clear expectations: It’s important to communicate your expectations clearly to your team. Let them know what you expect of them and what they can expect from you. This will help to build trust and create a positive working environment.
- Keep learning: Just because you’ve been promoted doesn’t mean you should stop learning. Stay up to date with the latest trends and best practices in your field, and continue to develop your skills.
- Build relationships: Take the time to build relationships with your colleagues, both inside and outside of your department. This will help you to build a network of contacts that you can rely on for support and advice.
- Be a role model: As a manager, you are now a role model for your team. Lead by example and demonstrate the behaviors you expect from your team members.
- Celebrate successes: Celebrate the successes of your team and acknowledge their hard work. This will help to build morale and create a positive working environment.
In conclusion, Marshall Goldsmith’s saying “What got you here will not get you there” is a reminder that success in one role does not guarantee success in a new role. To be successful after a promotion, you must be willing to work differently, adapt to new challenges, and develop new skills. By embracing the opportunities and challenges of a new role, you will continue to grow and contribute to your organizations’ success.
Good luck!