Thursday, 11 August 2016

Leading in a Disruptive World

The tragic trail of events, that seem to permeate our day-to-day lives, has become a sad, yet all too real, defining trend to the start of this new millennium – an age that promised so much. Looking back through the blurred and bloodied lens of recent history, it doesn’t seem that we have very much to hang our hopes, dreams and aspirations on. In fact, for many of us the opposite is true, fear becomes replaced by defiance, rhetoric is reduced to often hollow phrases as we find it hard – perhaps impossible – to comprehend what’s going on (or going wrong) with our world.


It is then that we need our leaders more than ever: individuals who have the innate ability to make us feel better about ourselves and safer in our skins. Despite the terrible events of recent history, we must not forget that we live in what has been termed a VUCA world.

A world that is by turns Volatile, Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous
.

It is a most unforgiving place, where seemingly anything and everything can happen and really does. It is a world where disruption is the order of the day.

It is Volatile: Because at any moment the box of tricks called ‘life’ can explode in your face. Just when you thought you had all the loose cannons tied down on the deck, a storm appears out of nowhere.
It is Uncertain: Whatever you think will happen won’t – and just when you least expect it.

It is Complex: There’s no doubt that a techno-driven web of super-complexity and connectivity drives our world and we cannot get away from it – not even for a nano-second.


It is Ambiguous: The rules we grew up with just don’t apply anymore. It is almost as though doing the opposite from what logic tells you is the right response.

There’s a lot of utter rubbish talked and written about leadership, that’s what keeps the consulting industry gainfully employed. But what seems most clear to me is that every CEO or so-called world leader has one thing they need to do and take responsibility and accountability for recognize that the world is, as I’ve just emphasised, unbelievably complex and no single person, no matter how much a genius they may be, can run it effectively. 

Therefore, as we wade ever deeper into the mire and slime of our self-inflicted VUCA world, the ability for our leaders to build effective teams of people around them are going to be what defines our organizations (and governments) of tomorrow. Equally, the ability of these leaders to inspire their teams to go the extra mile to try and navigate the storms of tomorrow is going to be paramount.
If we are to succeed and prosper in a world defined by ongoing disruption, where our world can be instantly turned topsy-turvy by a single, terrible act, then we must be able to feel that those who run our organizations have access to the best advice and counsel they can get. 

This is no great time to be a CEO; a toxic climate marked by markets in turmoil, geopolitical tremors and zealous stakeholders finding new agendas to prosecute. All this takes the attention away from providing fulfilling work experiences, not to mention the small matter of turning a profit. Little wonder then that many of the best and brightest prefer to take a back seat rather than face the cut and thrust of daily life in the spotlight.

My message to leaders is, take it on the chin. Surround yourself with the best and brightest you can get (a few battle-hardened old war horses aren’t a bad idea either). Then when all hell breaks loose (and all the signs indicate it will do just that sooner or later) be as ready and able as you can. There’s not much more we can expect, but being ready to act is giving yourself an even chance, which is not a bad outcome when the odds are stacked against you.


We didn’t deal the cards, but we can dictate how we play them.
Real leaders know, intuitively, what’s in their hand all the time. Think about it for a moment. A suit of cards is not unlike a team of people; all have their uses. You just hope you don’t get dealt too many Jokers.




This column on leadership and organizational development is written exclusively for the IEDP by Rudi Plettinx, Managing Director of Management Centre Europe, the Brussels-based development organization. Have a comment or a question? Engage direct with Rudi Plettinx here.


49 comments:

  1. This post has helped me to have another perspective. I am researching this topic for a paper I am writing(thesis writing service
    ). Your article provided me great insight of my topic.

    ReplyDelete
  2. I am not sure I am able to lead other people. Maybe I am wrong. You can visit our website if you want to find me.

    ReplyDelete
  3. It's not easy to be a leader. You should see here to find out why I think so. Deal?

    ReplyDelete
  4. I really happy found this website eventually. Really informative and inoperative! Thanks for the post and effort helpful for powerpoint presentation homework help

    ReplyDelete
  5. Hello! I see more and more people struggle with the writing papers. If you see that you need writing help then you can apply to the writing service. There you can find 220 persuasive essay topics

    ReplyDelete
  6. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  7. นั่นก็เพราะว่าบ้านของคุณมีความได้เปรียบทางเศรษฐกิจในตัวบุคคล ยิ่งขนาดกลุ่มในคาสิโนสดใหญ่ขึ้นเท่าใด https://bk8casino.asia/ ความได้เปรียบในบ้านของคุณก็ยิ่งประหยัดมากขึ้น ดังนั้นยิ่งผู้เล่นเล่นเกมบนเว็บมากเท่าไร บุคคลนั้นก็จะยิ่งมีโอกาสกำจัดเงินไปที่บ้านของคุณมากขึ้นเท่านั้น

    ReplyDelete
  8. This article you've just presented is appealing. I'd like to learn more about these types of blogs. Thank you so much for sharing this blog.

    john deere 5310

    ReplyDelete
  9. Great quality content man. Thanks for publishing this.
    Harrow price

    ReplyDelete
  10. Very interesting information, worth recommending. This is important, though it's necessary to help you head over to it weblink:

    스포츠토토
    토토
    안전놀이터
    토토사이트

    ReplyDelete
  11. this removes the consideration from giving satisfying work encounters, Homework Help Online also the little matter of making money. Little miracle then that large numbers of the best and most brilliant like to take a rearward sitting arrangement as opposed to confront the cut and push of day to day existence at the center of attention.

    ReplyDelete
  12. I read your blog and found it knowledgeable and I appreciate your writting.This is a useful blog, and thanks for giving us information. 온라인카지노

    ReplyDelete
  13. Great post. I was checking constantly this blog and I'm
    impressed! 토토

    ReplyDelete
  14. Very interesting information and i really glad to getting this information. 스포츠토토

    ReplyDelete
  15. Nicee..Blog.. I feel strongly about it and really enjoyed learning more about this topic. 카지노사이트

    ReplyDelete
  16. Greenhouse urban vertical farming has been largely used in modern agriculture! It helps farmers to withstand climate impacts as well as save land space. Therefore, literally you can yield all year round in the greenhouse. Combined with efficient irrigation systems and various farming equipment , farming become more scientific and successful. Organic farming can even further boost their profit.

    ReplyDelete
  17. 배트맨토토
    배트맨토토프로
    토토사이트


    Very significant Information for us, I have think the representation of this Information is actually superb one

    ReplyDelete
  18. Great information, thanks for sharing with us… check out my service…

    스포츠토토
    토토
    와이즈토토

    ReplyDelete
  19. 바카라사이트
    바카라
    바카라게임사이트

    Wonderful work! This is the type of info that are meant to be shared across the web. Shame on the seek engines for no longer positioning this submit upper! Come on over and seek advice from my web site . Thanks =)

    ReplyDelete
  20. 스포츠토토티비
    토토사이트
    스포츠중계
    Nice post. I was checking constantly this weblog and I’m inspired!

    Very helpful info particularly the remaining section 🙂 I maintain such info a lot.
    I used to be looking for this particular information for a very long time.
    Thank you and good luck.


    ReplyDelete
  21. 토토사이트
    배트맨토토
    메이저사이트


    Hi ! I would simply like to offer you a great thumbs
    up for your great information you have
    here on this post. I will be going back to your website for
    more information soon.

    ReplyDelete
  22. ทดลองเล่น Pg slot ฝาก 20 รับ 100 ฟรีที่ pg slot สัมผัสประสบการณ์ที่ความเพลิดเพลินแล้วก็ความเพลิดเพลินกันอย่างจุใจไปกับเกมสล็อตกว่า 500+ทำให้เกมสามารถปฏิบัติงานก้าวหน้าผ่านเว็บไซต์

    ReplyDelete
  23. เงินพร้อมคุณสมบัติก่อนคุณสมบัติ ทดลองเล่นสล็อต joker jokerslot.ninja ด้วยการอัปเดตวิดีโอสล็อตล่าสุด Gold Trail นำเสนอคุณสมบัติการสาธิตเพื่อเรียนรู้วิธีการเล่นอย่างมีประสิทธิภาพสูงสุด

    ReplyDelete
  24. เกมสล็อตออนไลน์ PG Slot จะเพิ่มโชคของคุณและนำความสุขและความสนุกสนานมาให้คุณด้วยเกมสล็อตกราฟิกที่สวยงาม เกมน่ารักและสนุกมากถึง 200 เกม พร้อมวิธีการเล่นที่แตกต่างอย่างที่ไม่เคยมีมาก่อน https://www.pgslot168game.com/ มีแจ็คพอตเด็ดรอคุณอยู่อีกมากมายพร้อมโบนัสมากถึง 20 %

    ReplyDelete
  25. It is a very informative post and it have cleared many thoughts in my mind. Now it's time to avail Telemarketing Services for more information.

    ReplyDelete
  26. Great ideas to share and read. Its a marvellous post to comment on. I am happy to get unique knowledge from you. Its time to get roller shutter repair london for more information.

    ReplyDelete
  27. As someone who has received a gift baskets in Karachi, I can attest to the joy and excitement it brings. Gift baskets are a thoughtful and unique way to show someone you care, and there are a wide variety of options available in Karachi to suit any occasion or taste.

    ReplyDelete
  28. The biker retro fashion jacket has a unique and edgy look that can add a touch of rebelliousness to any outfit. With its signature zippers, studs, and asymmetrical design, it is a piece that can make a statement and set you apart from the crowd.

    ReplyDelete
  29. As someone who is interested in astrology and spirituality, I have recently come across the Sistrology vlog and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed. The content and insight provided by Sistra Pilar is both enlightening and relatable

    ReplyDelete
  30. We understand the idea that you want to give us in your article. I just want to say thank you for sharing us your beautiful thoughts. Now it's time to avail Siding Services In Alachua County FL for more information.

    ReplyDelete
  31. Reckless Driving Failure to Maintain Control in Virginia refers to a traffic violation where a driver is charged for not maintaining control of their vehicle, leading to reckless driving. Legal professionals in Virginia specializing in this area offer counsel and representation to help individuals navigate such charges and minimize the associated penalties. Reckless Driving Failure to Maintain Control Virginia

    ReplyDelete
  32. Create a culture where diverse perspectives watermelon game are valued and respected, and where everyone feels included and empowered to contribute their unique insights and talents.

    ReplyDelete
  33. Paint a compelling picture of the future you envision melon playground and rally your team around a shared purpose and common goals.

    ReplyDelete
  34. ทางเข้า pg เกมสล็อต เล่นง่าย แตกง่าย การเล่นเกมออนไลน์ pg slot มีความนิยมและเป็นที่ต้องการของผู้คนในยุคปัจจุบัน โดยเฉพาะเกมสล็อตออนไลน์ที่เติบโตมากขึ้นเรื่อย ๆ

    ReplyDelete
  35. Foster an environment where online games, along with diverse viewpoints, are cherished and honored. Ensure that all individuals feel included and motivated to offer their distinct talents and insights, contributing to a rich, engaging community.

    ReplyDelete
  36. Whether you’re a language enthusiast seeking mental stimulation or a parent fostering educational play, bandle
    ticks all the boxes.

    ReplyDelete
  37. At Lasik Surgery Austin, patients can expect personalized care from the initial consultation to post-operative follow-ups. The experienced surgeons at Lasik Surgery Austin will carefully assess each patient's unique eye condition and customize a treatment plan to address their specific needs and vision goals.

    Whether you're nearsighted, farsighted, or have astigmatism, Lasik Surgery Austin can help you achieve sharper vision and reduce your dependency on corrective lenses. Contact Lasik Surgery Austin today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards clearer vision and a brighter future.

    ReplyDelete
  38. I'm always excited to see what new topics your blog covers. Thank you for keeping it interesting!

    cng auto price on road

    ReplyDelete
  39. abogado trafico virginia beach va
    we’ll dive into the key strategies and mindsets that successful leaders are adopting to thrive in the face of uncertainty. Whether you're a seasoned executive, a manager, or an aspiring leader, this blog will offer valuable insights on how to lead with purpose, drive change, and turn disruption into opportunity.
    abogado dui suffolk virginia

    ReplyDelete
  40. Leading in a disruptive world ultimately involves more than just keeping up with change; it also entails using it to forge new possibilities, strengthen existing companies, and promote a collaborative and resilient culture. Solicitation of a minor charge

    ReplyDelete
  41. https://aaryaeditz.org is a fantastic platform! It offers high-quality design edits, professional services, and user-friendly interface. I highly recommend it for anyone looking for creative solutions and great customer service.

    ReplyDelete