Considering Changes in 2011? Read this first.

Companies often set stretch goals for a new year and leave it to the staff to figure out how to change their departments to reach them. When considering changes, determining what to change to meet your goals and how to properly effect those changes can be a challenge. David Shedd, in his article Three Critical Mistakes That Are Made When Companies Go Through Changes, points out these common mistakes: 1) changing too many things, 2) changing the wrong things, or 3) skipping important steps.

Focus your change initiatives on the few vital improvements needed to move your company to the next level. Make sure your root cause assessments clearly identify what is needed to change to make the improvement. Don’t skip any steps on the path. Ensure your company heads into 2011 with a clear plan for improvement to meet your goals.

Create Your Own Future!

The Seattle Times shared Microsoft’s announcement this week of their new tagline, “Be What’s Next.” It’s all about creating your own future. I’m excited about our future. I’m ready for change. I’m ready for the future and I want those around me to be ready as well.

You can decide where your company is going next. Time is ripe for reinvention. Figure out what you love to do and do it well.  Find out from your employees where they see the company going. What ideas do they have to improve your present and prepare for the future? Should you be going down a new path in this “new normal?” If you are heading in a new direction, does your web presence and collateral material reflect this new direction?

I urge you to reflect on your own future and decide what you want it to be and how you will get there. In other words, “create your own future.”

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