The Seven C’s of Creative Leadership
By Tony Vengrove
Welcome to Episode 7 of The Seven C’s of Creative Leadership! Today, we discuss the sixth C: Change Management. All innovation involves change of some degree. Whether it’s a radical innovation that renders an existing line of business irrelevant or an incremental product innovation that alters a manufacturing process, Creative Leaders are conscious of the cultural impact ideas will have on their organization. This awareness empowers them to sell ideas because they can ward off potential resistance before the skeptics attempt to convince key decision-makers otherwise.
Creative Leaders not only only must embrace change, they must possess the confidence
Jeff Shuck, CEO of Plenty Consulting, we discuss the relationship between change and creative leadership. Jeff works on the front-line of change and shares great insight that any leader of any size business can put into practice immediately. Highlights from the conversation include:
The problem isn’t getting new ideas in, it’s getting old ideas out.
“Change is actually the norm.”
“Visioning is the North Star.”
Put new employees on new teams; let them make something happen instead of beating them down until they obey the cultural norm.
Three words every leader should say: “I was wrong.” Follow up with, “Here is what I learned.”
Champion a bold vision, but don’t forget to celebrate the small wins.
Don’t forget to join us next week for Episode 7 as we invite Denis Budniewski, EVP, Director of Account Leadership & Growth at Campbell Mithun, to discuss Courage. Denis is long-time agency veteran and has seen it all. He’ll explain why it’s so critical to be courageous in defense of great ideas. Courage is the creative leadership attribute that separates the good from the great. You won’t want to miss Denis’ perspective!
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Miles Finch Innovation helps companies navigate the messy territory of corporate innovation. We’re strategic thinking partners who can help you get unstuck and identify creative solutions to your toughest challenges. We also love to train and speak on the subject of Creative Leadership. Email us or call us at 860-799-7505 to learn how we can help you you unlock the creative potential of your employees.