Does Agility Matter in Small Business?
The headlines of business periodicals and studies tout how resilient businesses are in adapting to the “new normal” of business and commerce. In working with over a dozen small business leaders recently a slightly different picture emerged. While all were optimistic about 2021 and the future, they were also all still reeling from the rapid changes of the past ten months. Most said they had a plan in place, and though the words they spoke were of confidence in those plans, the underlying tone was more often one of wistful hope as opposed to firm conviction. A few leaders voiced outright concern about the trajectory of their organization given the uncertainty of any concrete vision about post-pandemic business. Concerns and doubts can lead to organizational paralysis, but it seems most organizations recognize the need to develop a plan and to take action – even if it needs to be modified as time goes on.
This all points to one key word that resonates across all organizations – AGILITY. With the future of the business landscape being as stable as the San Andreas Fault, nothing is more important for a business to develop and nurture across all segments than the ability to pivot quickly and seamlessly.
It is not enough for leadership to be agile - they must build a team that welcomes change and thrives on working in the gray. When team members are resistant to change it can foster a negative energy that permeates throughout the organization – and will ultimately reach and impact the customer.
Change management courses may help personnel who are more comfortable with black and white and status quo. Experienced leaders understand that whenever possible it’s better to hire people who are naturally agile, who think on their feet, and welcome a challenge. These are skills that can’t be easily taught, and in today’s rapidly changing environment do you really have the time and resources to devote to trying mold key players?
Could your small business benefit from a no-cost no-obligation consultation to discuss how your organization can better adapt to today’s business success models?
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