The Equalizer…

One of the biggest things that can change an organization is enforcing the use of data in every conversation.

If you as a leader, ignore the ‘I think…’ or ‘I remember when…’ or ‘We already tried that…’ comments.

And, at the same time, recognize people who start the debate with ‘The data shows… ‘ or ‘I used the Pareto Principle to…’ or ‘Statistically it appears that…’

You will completely change an organization.  The people who considered themselves in power just because of tenure may find themselves with an internal struggle and resentment towards you as the new leaders.

While others (typically newer people to the organization) or the lower ranking people love this approach.

Why?

Data levels the playing field.  If a union worker or the new guy comes in and explains to everyone that the data shows this… and the Leader listens, very quickly this person gains credibility with the workforce.

This simple change mechanism is greater than any Six Sigma initiative, Kaizen Event, Lean Manufacturing team, or any other Change Management program of the month.

Committing the organization to use data in every single decision will quickly drive change throughout the organization.

And the best thing about this approach - chances are you are going to be able to make the right decisions because you have the data in front of you that clearly illustrates what to do.

Leadership… it really is easy.

Just kidding.