Board Chair: “I thought Jack was a great choice for CEO but now I’m not so sure.”
Board Member: “I know what you mean. Can’t you just feel the tension between him and the CFO?”
The Board of Directors had high hopes for Jack McGuire, the new CEO. A rising star with extensive background in product development and marketing, a Ph.D., multiple patents, quick grasp of the financials, and amazing self-confidence, he had stood out among all the other candidates. But after just two Board meetings, Jack’s star is now falling—fast.
Today, it was clear that neither the CFO nor the CIO supported Jack’s proposal to upgrade the ERP system. There was clear conflict as to the best strategy to streamline business processes and costs. Even though Jack made a strong case, the lack of support by several key executives prompted the Board to table the decision, delaying further action.
Is Jack in trouble? Yes! One of Jack’s priorities is to improve operating efficiency. His apparent lack of ability to gain alignment with his team on a key strategy was obvious, shaking the Board’s confidence in his leadership.
Effective transition to a key position requires the ability to quickly build the confidence and trust of your team. Leaders have as short as 90 days to build credibility and establish key relationships. Alignment is key to the team’s ability to pull in the same direction—in this case—toward improved operating efficiency.
Alignment in our team development model focuses on team members’ commitment to a common, compelling mission. Without commitment there is no investment by team members and without investment, decisions are delayed, deadlines are missed, and productivity suffers.
Team Productivity Strength #1: A sense of common mission and purpose
Jane Patterson, an Exeutive and Team Development Coach, is an authorized Facilitator of the Team Diagnostic Assessment, a proven model that helps build the strengths for high-performing, sustainable teams. She is Managing Partner of Cornerstone Team Development www.cornerstonetd.com
LHH of Pittsburgh 