EP33 Gaining alignment where it matters

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In this conversation, Mike discusses the importance of gaining alignment within organizations and provides practical tools to achieve it. He emphasizes that without alignment, organizations lack clarity and become leaderless, resulting in inefficiency and poor performance. Scott introduces the concept of creating a vision, using the Jim Collins and Jerry Porras framework, to establish core values, purpose, big hairy audacious goals, and vivid descriptions of the desired reality. He also explores the idea of essential intent, where organizations focus on becoming excellent at one thing within a specific timeframe. Additionally, Scott highlights the Stockdale Paradox, which involves acknowledging brutal truths while maintaining a deep conviction that the organization will overcome challenges. He concludes by discussing the importance of constructive conflict and the concept of asking for support rather than agreement.

Takeaways

• Alignment is crucial for organizations to achieve clarity and avoid inefficiency and poor performance.
• Creating a vision, including core values, purpose, big hairy audacious goals, and vivid descriptions, helps establish alignment.
• The concept of essential intent focuses on becoming excellent at one thing within a specific timeframe.
• The Stockdale Paradox involves acknowledging brutal truths while maintaining a deep conviction that the organization will overcome challenges.
• Constructive conflict and asking for support rather than agreement are essential for effective decision-making and alignment.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and the Need for Alignment

01:20
Creating a Vision for Alignment

04:06
The Concept of Essential Intent

07:48
Embracing the Stockdale Paradox

12:48
The Role of Constructive Conflict

20:55
Asking for Support, Not Agreement

Find out more about working with me. mike@smbmastery.com.au or https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeadamscott/