Have you ever wondered why some organizations really flourish, move forward at a commendable rate and realise their objectives; whilst others are problematic, tend to go around in circles as the same problems reappear and remain unresolved, and they never quite realise their goals ?

Have you stopped to think why such differences in organizations are evident ? Having been involved with a diverse range of organizations to date, I am confident I know why. Progressive, forward-moving organizations typically reflect these three key attributes:

  • Definitive strategic direction – the organisation’s Strategic Plan is unanimously supported by directors and the wider shareholder group alike; and at least most stakeholders work in accordance with the chosen and approved direction.
  • Politics is not permitted to raise its ugly head to the extent that it overshadows well-reasoned practical thinking and action.
  • Strong leadership – the leader(s) is/ are not afraid to lead, and they do so with authority and conviction.

Political positions are typically formed by strongly opinionated stakeholders who are convinced that their views are the only views that should be considered (or are best/ correct views); and they remain steadfast believing that this is indeed the case irrespective of other equally (or more) valid views that may be offered by other people. The main problem with political opinions is that they are typically highly subjective in nature, are unsubstantiated by evidence and are motivated by a desire in the person concerned to become more liked/ supported/ advocated (all of which are selfish agendas). Political positions mostly fail to deliver tangible benefits to the stakeholder who the “politician” is charged with leading, because the “politician” is more concerned about what’s in it for them versus whether (and to what extent) the advocated initiative will benefit the wider stakeholder group.

In my experience, the most effective leaders – and therefore the most effective organizations – are those who/ that consider issues and opportunities from a practical perspective rather than a political one. Practical leaders tend to be more direct, to the point and matter of fact about their viewpoints; whereas “politicians” tend to communicate loose ideas which cannot be substantiated by facts and which benefit themselves more than the stakeholders who they are charged with representing.

Politically-charged organizations will not advance at the same rate as those organizations which are led by pragmatic leaders.