In the latest HCI Webinar, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Tabitha Scott about rethinking change management. Below is a summary of the main points from their conversation! Check out the full episode and let us know what you think!
Watch the episode here:
Quick Recap
The meeting focused on the evolving landscape of change management, discussing how traditional models are becoming obsolete in the face of rapid technological advancements and constant change. Jonathan and Tabitha explored the need for adaptability in leadership and organizational structures, emphasizing the importance of aligning with natural energy principles and individual tendencies to foster innovation and productivity. They concluded by discussing Tabitha's work and sharing contact information for further engagement on the topic.
Adapting Change Management Strategies
Jonathan and Tabitha discussed the shifting landscape of change management. Jonathan, a university professor and consultant, emphasized the need for organizations to adapt to constant change. Tabitha, a recognized thought leader and author, shared her background in energy engineering and finance, highlighting her expertise in harnessing human dynamics for sustainable business success. She introduced the concept of viewing change management through an energetic perspective, drawing from natural science principles. The conversation laid the groundwork for a deeper exploration of change management strategies and the application of energy principles in organizational dynamics.
Rapid Technological Change and Change Management
In the meeting, Tabitha and Jonathan discussed the rapid pace of technological change and its impact on change management. Tabitha argued that change management is a myth due to the accelerated adoption of technology, which has led to a chaotic environment. She emphasized that the traditional linear approach to change management is no longer applicable. Jonathan agreed, stating that the old change management models and textbooks are obsolete. They both agreed that the current environment demands a different approach to change management, with constant and rapid change being the norm.
Adapting to Rapid Technological Changes
Jonathan and Tabitha discussed the rapid and constant changes in the modern era, driven by technological shifts, geopolitical and socioeconomic changes, and shifts in labor force dynamics. They agreed that the old linear models of change are obsolete and that a continual learning and readiness mindset is necessary to adapt to these changes. They also discussed the impact of these changes on the perception of reality, with different news cycles and sources of information leading to confusion. Tabitha suggested looking to nature for answers, using the growth cycle as an example. Jonathan added that while the planet will continue to evolve, the challenge is how these changes impact humans.
Aligning Leadership With Organizational Needs
Tabitha and Jonathan discussed the importance of aligning executive leadership with the needs of their respective organizations. They used Southwest Airlines as an example, highlighting how the company's failure to adapt to changing needs led to a decline in its operations. Tabitha emphasized the need for different types of leadership at different stages of a company's growth curve, citing the example of Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak at Apple. Jonathan agreed, noting that it's human nature to choose people who are similar to us, but it's crucial for organizations to make strategic shifts in leadership to adapt to changing circumstances. They concluded that forward-thinking boards and leaders understand this necessity and make the necessary changes.
Challenges of Replicating Past Success
Jonathan and Tabitha discussed the challenges of replicating past success in leadership and organizational structure. Jonathan emphasized that basing decisions on what worked in the past is often a recipe for failure, especially in today's rapidly changing environment. Tabitha agreed, suggesting that different roles within an organization should be aligned with different stages of the growth curve, with marketing and sales focused on the future, operations in the middle, and accounting and compliance more risk-averse. They both agreed that looking only at past performance is not a viable strategy for future success.
Navigating Change and Harnessing Energy
Jonathan and Tabitha discussed the challenges of navigating complex environments and the need for adaptability in a world of constant change. They highlighted the tension between individualistic and entrepreneurial spirits and the need for compliance and risk aversion. Tabitha emphasized the importance of understanding what energizes individuals and how to align with their natural tendencies to foster productivity and innovation. She also suggested that change management could be more predictable if approached from a physics perspective, focusing on energy and alignment rather than rationalization. The conversation ended with the idea that the answers to managing change are already present in nature, if only we pay attention.
Tabitha's Work and Upcoming Episode
Jonathan and Tabitha discussed Tabitha's work, including her books "Powering Change" and "Trust Your Animal Instincts". Tabitha shared her contact details and encouraged the audience to reach out for more information. Jonathan thanked Tabitha for her contribution and mentioned that the episode would be released in a month. He also offered to assist with any questions and encouraged Tabitha to repurpose the content as needed. Both agreed to stay in touch and wished each other a great week.
Listen to the webinar here:
