Business Problems Solved Podcast The Difference Between Internal And External Improvement People
What is the difference between an Internal and External Improvement Person, be that a Coach, Consultant or Change Practitioner? Lee has been both and in this episode will detail not only the differences but the commonalities, be it the way the two are perceived by their team or those they are working with, the preconceived notions of seniority or the level of credibility offered and maintained.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- The differences appear in the way the Change Leader is perceived. People often find External Change has more credibility as they are tackling a problem That the internal system could not solve. This credibility is fragile and harder to maintain.
- Internally it is harder to gain credibility with those with whom you have previous working relationships. The relationships are at a more equal level, but once respect and credibility are achieved it is easier to maintain amongst familiar companies.
- Internal change is advantageous due to knowledge of processes and established working relationships with teams. However, an over-familiarity with systems may prevent the spotting of long-term obvious errors and an impartial conception of changes required.
BEST MOMENTS
‘I’ve had the opportunity to be both an Internal Change Person and currently an External Change Person supporting businesses and teams and leaders to do what they do better.’
‘It’s harder to gain credibility because you’ve got to deliver stuff. You’ve got to have a background in delivering, or a level or seniority that allows people to know that you mean business and you can actually help them.’
‘With an External, it’s easier to ensure that people have the ownership and accountability of the solution and of the answers because you don’t know the processes.’
‘They each bring different challenges, but I think it comes down to credibility. External people have instant credibility that can be lost in how they turn up, show up and what they do. It might take a little bit longer to build credibility depending on your level of seniority and what it is that you do to help people win.’
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Business Problems Solved Podcast
ABOUT THE HOST
For the last 15 years, I have been a multi-sector internal or external business improvement consultant, building the improved capability of individuals, teams and businesses.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my two young children Jack & India. I also enjoy listening to and reading business & personal development material.
Lee Houghton is “THE Business Problem Solver”, a Management Consultant, CX Specialist and Keynote Speaker.
CONTACT METHOD
You can contact Lee Houghton on 07813342194