Originally Published in my Tumblr 2011
While you can recognize the culture in most places, try changing it! Some would say it’s impossible. I don’t say that at all, but it does take a plan.
Leadership is the primary tool for changing the culture! Storytelling, visioning, modeling behavior, persuasion, decision making, etc. You gotta walk the walk and talk the talk. Tough deal sometimes when you are “living” the negative or current culture over an extended time frame. But it can be done. Find someone you trust with your life and ask them to hold you accountable. They will and you will lead as you have never led before. It’s a killer lifestyle change if you are totally immersed in the muck, but so worth it.
Be prepared after the confidence builder in the “Lessons of Leadership” that you’re ready to do a little managing. You are going to have to define roles, hire and fire a little, and really gather the troops around a common goal organizationally. Rituals and incentives work and you should remember to sprinkle a little accountability over the entire process.
After that, you will start to see changes in the institutional culture…maybe. If not the “Power” position might be your last resort. Use it sparingly because there is great truth in the rumor that “Power” corrupts. Power is punishing, threatening, and all that ugly stuff you see in prison movies.
I saw a presentation once where these three tools were best described as Inspiration, Information, & Intimidation! You’ll enjoy the journey and so will those valuable employees that share your passion.
One more thing. Always remember to follow the directions on the shampoo bottle. Don’t ever forget to wash, rinse and repeat! Keep it fresh and new every day, all the time.