The Global Leader
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Whether you are the CEO or the first line supervisor, today's explosive global business climate
demands broader vision and almost instantaneous response. After the early '90's slash and burn
approach to corporate restructuring, we have re-learned that among the most valuable assets of a
business are the skills and experience of its employees, and, especially, its managers and
specialists. The role of the global leader is to recognize and nurture those assets through,
frequently, turbulent times. But, first, the leader must recognize and expand his or her own abilities. What skills are important for today's vibrant global leader? Not surprisingly, the primary requirement is a global outlook. Here, the term 'global' goes beyond geography. Still, the geography affects many of the things we do, daily. Overnight delivery is a myth even on the same continent. What can we promise our buyers overseas? How do we service what we send? |
Did you specify the currency on your website or order form? Was that T-T dollars? Volatile
currencies and international bank failures make the news; but, consider the implications of
dealing in an area where the concept of a cheque (check - yet, another global difference) is
totally new. English may be the global language of commerce; but, to the end user, trying to read your product instructions, it may be pure gibberish. Translation may seem self evident; but you need only try to read "English" labels and instructions on imported products to recognize the serious need for quality control. Yet, language is only one of a host of issues if you are expanding your business into other countries. A major ability we need to expand is our awareness of global culture. Each nation defines itself by a myriad of customs, laws, mores and tabus. Diversity awareness in our human resources is simply the beginning of our need for understanding. Many nations have also developed their own successful approach to employee relations. In order to effectively operate in a new environment, we must somehow integrate our corporate culture with their business and social culture. If the mix is not compatible, are we strong enough to withdraw? |
Today, leadership, at all levels, demands that you have a broader understanding of your
corporation, your industry, and t heir constantly changing roles in the market place. With your inbox overflowing, how can you keep up that understanding? Make it a priority. Unlike Bill Gates, you may not be able to afford a full study week every year; but, you can afford a full study minute every day. Find (or have some one else find- after all delegation is also a strong leadership characteristic) and subscribe to publications and e-zines that can bring you up to the minute news about your industry. Filter the e-zines to a directory where you can find them immediately; and, read the best one FIRST thing every morning. Filter publications to a rack beside your telephone so you can read them while you are on hold or waiting for someone to appear for a meeting. For corporate understanding, make a point to meet folks from other departments or specialties, join a corporate based sports team and read, yes, actually, read, the policy and practice regulations which govern your business life and form the basis of your corporate culture. Should your company join another, you will be an automatic resource for the merging of the cultures. While many regard the constancy of change as a threat, the outstanding global leader recognizes the freedom it brings. Creativity need no longer flourish only in the laboratory: creativity in management can lead a business to the top of its field; and, the leader to the top of his or her business. Norman K. Rebin |
