3 steps to stay relevant as a leader in times of change

Published 4 April 2023 | 2 min read

The fast-paced world we live in demands that change management be at the forefront of corporate agendas. Technological advancements have brought about disruption and transformation at a rate comparable only to the Industrial Revolution. Failure to embrace ambiguity and proactively lead change management can jeopardize an organization's long-term survival.

Organisations that have failed to evolve and adapt to new times have been left behind. Nokia, a once-powerful Finnish company, is a prime example. Once ranked 20th on Fortune 500's most admirable companies, Nokia had a commanding 48.7% stake of the global market. However, by 2013, its market share had dropped to a mere 3.5%. The primary reason for Nokia's decline was its inability to transition into a new era, which is a lesson for today's business leaders.

  • Change is the new normal, and change management is crucial for long-term success.
  • The story of Nokia highlights the importance of evolving and adapting to new times.
  • Embracing ambiguity and thinking differently are crucial skills for today's leaders.

Change can be unsettling, but it can also bring opportunities. Being able to embrace change and see things differently is a vital skill in today's world, and it will set you apart from others – both within and outside of your organization. Critical thinking can be your best asset in a rapidly changing environment. The past is no longer an accurate guide to the future as the need to continually deal with the unexpected will grow. Organizations increasingly need individuals who thrive in the unknown and can adapt to new business situations.

In today's world, the ability to solve problems and think creatively and critically is essential. Technological innovations and workplace automation are increasing at an exponential rate, but technology alone cannot match the ability to solve problems and think creatively and critically. Leaders must recognize the key skills needed in today's environment and help their team acquire them. Change in the workplace demands a fresh approach – what worked yesterday may not be so effective tomorrow. Leaders must build a team that can think outside the box and adapt to new business situations. Making time to reflect and seek feedback is also crucial in change management.

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