When it comes to strategy execution, there’s a critical element that most people overlook: informal networks. These are the relationships andcommunication channels that don’t show up on organizational charts but play ahuge role in getting things done. If you’ve ever felt blindsided by decisionsor struggled to get your strategy moving, it’s likely these hidden networks areat play.
Informal networks are often driven by key influencers who aren’t necessarily in leadership positions. These are the people everyone turns to for advice, the ones who spread news like wildfire. Think of it like the old Motown hit, “Heard It Through the Grapevine.” If you want your strategy to succeed, you need to tap into that grapevine.
Start by observing who people go to for information or help. Pay attention to social interactions during meetings, breaks, and casual conversations. These informal leaders are your allies.
When our client's well-crafted strategy was met with internal resistance, we identified and engaged influential employees outside of leadership roles. These key influencers who weren’t part of the official leadership, held significant sway over their peers. Engaging these unofficial leaders and getting their buy-in created a ripple effect, accelerating the strategy’s implementation. Just like Marvin Gaye sang, "people say believe half of what you see, son, and none of what you hear." Trust in the grapevine to guide you to the right people.
Once you’ve identified the key players, engage them in your strategy. This means not just informing them but actively involving them in the planning and execution process. Share your vision, listen to their feedback, and make them feel like an integral part of the team.
Instead of a top-down approach, one company held collaborative strategy sessions with key influencers. By involving them early and often, the company gained valuable insights and fostered a sense of ownership among these critical players. This engagement turned informal leaders into strategy champions who naturally spread enthusiasm and commitment throughout the organization. It’s like creating your own positive grapevine effect.
Informal networks thrive on communication. To leverage them effectively, create channels for open and honest dialogue. This could be regular informal check-ins, anonymous feedback mechanisms, or casual brainstorming sessions. The goal is to keep the flow of information constant and transparent.
In one successful project, we implemented weekly feedback rounds with frontline employees. These sessions weren’t just about gathering information but fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Employees felt heard, and their insights led to real-time adjustments in the strategy, keeping it relevant and effective.
Informal networks are dynamic. They change as people join or leave the organization, and as relationships evolve. Regularly monitor these networks to stay on top of shifts in influence and communication patterns. Adapt your engagement strategies accordingly to keep your strategy execution on track.
Using regular surveys and direct feedback, one company continuously assessed the effectiveness of its communication channels. This proactive approach kept the organization adaptable and responsive to changing internal dynamics.
Here’s a quick template to get you started:
By tapping into the hidden power of informal networks, you can enhance your strategy execution, making it more resilient and effective. Remember, it’s not just about the formal structures; it’s about the real, human connections that drive your organization forward. So next time you’re working on a strategy, don’t just focus on the official channels. Pay attention to what you’re hearing through the grapevine.
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