Anton Guinea
Entrepreneur, Speaker, bestselling author, and founder of The Guinea Group of Companies. For over 15 years, Anton has helped leaders move their teams to become psychologically safe, physically safe and overall better versions of themselves.
Systems leadership is the most important thing you can do to elevate your leadership outcomes. It is a process, but more importantly, it is a mindset.
Systems leadership was first introduced to me by a leader who shared the book “Requisite Organisation” (Jacques). The concepts resonated, and more importantly, the process resonated with me.
In its most complex sense, systems leadership is about how an organisational structure is developed to function effectively, and how leaders at every level coach the leaders at the next level down in their reporting structure. That coaching is in all areas of development, from personal to professional development. Systems leaders was developed within a large organisational context and framework, and smaller organisations that we work with tend to struggle with the concepts.
In its purest form, systems leadership is about matching systems (process) with leadership (people) – in other words, systematising (calendarising) your leadership (coaching) work. With the goal of solving problems together (leader and team member), and collaboratively.
Every leader, no matter what level of the organisation they are at, should calendarise this 1:1s, their site walks, their team meetings, and anything else people related. And they should never miss those meetings.
If you are struggling with systems leadership, here are three tips to help you systematise your leadership, and these tips come from a broader perspective (both large and small organisations) where leaders need to work with leaders in say other departments, as well as their team members.
1. Embrace a Systems Thinking Mindset
To truly lead in a systemic way, it’s crucial to adopt a mindset that recognises the interconnectedness of all elements within an organisation. Leaders should move beyond linear thinking and understand that every decision, action, or change can have ripple effects across various departments and levels. Encourage your team to see the big picture, fostering collaboration and a shared understanding of how individual contributions contribute to the organisation’s overall success.
Remember, a systems thinking mindset is not about simplifying problems but acknowledging and navigating their complexity. This perspective allows leaders to identify patterns, anticipate potential issues, and make more informed decisions with long-term impacts in mind.
2. Foster Collaborative Leadership
Systems leadership thrives on collaboration. Encourage a culture where diverse perspectives are not only welcomed but actively sought. Leaders should create platforms for open communication, ensuring that team members across departments feel empowered to share their insights and concerns.
Effective collaboration also involves breaking down silos. In a systems approach, information and knowledge should flow seamlessly between different parts of the organisation. This not only enhances decision-making but also promotes a sense of unity and shared purpose among team members.
Consider implementing cross-functional teams, where individuals from various departments work together on specific projects. This not only promotes a deeper understanding of each other’s roles but also generates innovative solutions by leveraging diverse expertise.
3. Invest in Continuous Learning and Adaptability
In the contemporary organisation, the ability to learn and adapt is paramount. Leaders should actively promote a culture of continuous learning, where employees are encouraged to acquire new skills, stay informed about industry trends, and adapt to changing circumstances.
This may involve investing in training programs, workshops, or providing resources for online courses. Leaders should also be role models for a learning mindset, demonstrating their commitment to personal and professional development. By fostering a culture of adaptability, organisations can more effectively respond to challenges, seize opportunities, and stay ahead in a dynamic environment.
In conclusion, Systems Leadership is about embracing complexity, fostering collaboration, and promoting continuous learning. By adopting these principles, leaders can navigate the intricacies of today’s organisational landscapes and guide their teams towards sustainable success.
Wishing you all a week filled with leadership growth and positive transformations!
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UPGRADE your Mindset
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