Tech disruption can work within valued cultures

Tech disruption can work within valued cultures says tech leader.

Before pushing or trying to sell staff on the value of a long-term strategy,
why not ask the team first how any grand manoeuvres would impact on their culture?

So suggests, Nick Mulcahy, CEO of Soltius NZ, the latest leader to take part in Leaders Review: Focus Points, a series of televised and online public service spots aimed at helping and focusing the wider business and leadership community.

Having seen a doubling of growth through his New Zealand-based SAP consultancy
(the largest of its type nationally) as well as a swag of best-place-to-work awards and placements, the CEO has become quite passionate around the value of putting team consultation first ahead of any potential strategy pay-offs.

“What would it be like for them in six months time?” he asks.
“Do they believe the people (sitting) next to them will be as professional
– still as passionate as they are now?”

“Its not the offices. Not the perks. None of that stuff,” insists Mulcahy.
“…More about identifying how one’s organization started - What passion was it built on?”

“Selling (a strategy) to staff is a one-way communication street,” he adds.
“…And its not taking advantage of the great minds you’ve got working within your business.”

“Consult with your staff around your strategy and you’ve then got a two-way dialogue going on. They can tell you a little bit more around where they think there are potential gaps…any negative impacts the strategy could have…or whether they think you’re onto a winner.”

“Not only have you (then) got a new level of buy-in, you’ve now (also) ‘tested’ your strategy.”

Mulcahy went on to argue that technological disruption didn’t necessarily go hand-in-hand with disrupting a happy, clearly-functioning culture. Within a positive and supportive atmosphere, disruption could still apply to the way a company worked and its processes.

“Most of the successful technology companies are actually taking their staff on the journey – not just switching them out as technologies are switched out.”

What: Leaders Review Focus Points, public service video series for business by invited New Zealand business leaders (televised and online).
Where: TVNZ1 Monday to Friday, Leaders Review regular, signature spots, leading the breaks just before Breakfast ‘s 7AM News bulletins.
On-demand, extended, breakout versions netcast at LeadersReview.co.nz

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