Beginning Before You Start

As the United States of America starts a new administration we are reminded of the importance of preparing for leadership before you actually start your new position. The Obama presidency began shortly after Election Day with a very active transition that included appointments, briefings and the beginning of the new administration’s agenda, all of which were made public during organized press conference and weekly messages via the media, which included the world-wide web. The importance of a well-thought out leadership transition and entry plan can not be overstated. In fact, a majority – over 60% – of new leaders struggle with their new position, often times ending before the new leader can establish their legacy.

In today’s uncertain world it has become necessary for leaders to be actively engaged in managing their transition to a new position, whether within their current or entering a new organization. Expectations are high and there are many depending on a leader who will move organizations and their people to the next level of productivity and success. As a new leader, it is important to be in touch with those you will lead and this connection should begin with informational interviews before day 1; the leader should ask various stakeholders about their take on the organization, the issues the new leader will face and the types of work that will need to be done. During these fact-finding and listening sessions, the leader will also need to begin communicating important values along with demonstrating empathy and understanding. They must also maintain boundaries and respect that they are in fact not yet the leader of the organization. An example of this comes from higher education and the manner in which John Maeda began his tenure as President of the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) as President-Elect. From the time of his selection in the winter until his official start in June 2008, Maeda began blogging with the RISD community, sharing his vision of expanding the school’s reach beyond its own boundaries into the greater community. His blog, entitled, OUR RISD, shared his exploration and insights of the school as he discovered the wonders of preparing to serve as the school’s next President. He continually honored his predecessor while expanding on his desire to take RISD even further into the greater world of art, design and even social change.

The days of the hierarchical leader are diminishing, with the instant access of the media, blogs and social networks. The time has come for each of us to contribute to the transformation of leadership by connecting each day beyond our offices; we need to engage a wider audience in our work and the collective vision of a better world through the persistence and work of high performing organizations and individuals. As you prepare for your next assignment, be ready to begin your work before you start by reaching out to others for advice, their involvement and most importantly their support.