Transformation in organisations often stems from the top, yet there’s a growing recognition of the need for ground-level engagement. This shift is not about ignoring leadership but rather redefining it to encompass the entire workforce. The notion of ‘distributed leadership’ is gaining traction, with the belief that everyone in an organisation has a role to play in its evolution.
Traditional hierarchical structures are being questioned, with a call for a more organic, community-driven approach to decision making. This involves employees at all levels, fostering a sense of ownership and commitment. The idea is not to eliminate management but to decentralise it, allowing for a more dynamic and responsive organisational structure.
Organisational change is often seen as a top-down process, but this perspective is increasingly being challenged. The focus is shifting towards a more inclusive, bottom-up approach that values the insights and contributions of all staff members. This approach recognises that effective change requires collective efforts, with everyone playing their part in shaping the organisation’s future.
In essence, true transformation comes from engagement at all levels, not just from the top. It’s about fostering a culture of shared responsibility, where everyone has a role to play in shaping the organisation’s direction. This shift towards a more inclusive, distributed leadership model could prove crucial in ensuring organisational agility and resilience in an ever-changing business landscape.
Go to source article: http://www.mintzberg.org/blog/transformation-from-the-top-how-about-engagement-on-the-ground