You Have The Power: Influencing Your Organization's Culture

Our country just had two more mass shootings - in El Paso and Dayton. This is not a political or policy blog, so I wll not get into those areas. However, much has been discussed in the media prior to and after these events about the effect of a leader’s tone and words on the actions of others.

Leaders have tremendous influence on the culture, priorities and actions in their organizations. They communicate what is permissible and not based on their words and actions. Organization members who want to belong and get along will often mirror the words and actions of the leader in order to remain a part of the group. A feedback loop is created that perpetuates the culture so that it is reinforced.

There are numerous examples from history of the power of leaders to influence their follower’s actions and words. Too often, we look these examples and shake our heads and wonder, “How could that happen? How could people behave like that?”. Leaders can choose to use this influence for positive or negative outcomes. We know Dr. King and Gandhi; we also know Hitler and Stalin. I hesitate to use the term “leader” in the context of Hitler and Stalin. I believe true leaders inspire a shared vision and lead others toward making positive change.

You may not lead a country or even a large organization, but you have great influence over the words and actions of your followers. Do not underestimate the power your have to inspire positive change. Some questions to get you thinking and reflecting on your influence as a leader:

• How well do your words and actions align with your values and priorities?

• What are you trying to accomplish with your words and actions?

• What do you notice about the influence you have in your organization?

• How well are your words and actions consistent?

• What shifts can you make in your words and actions that will affect the change you desire?

Let me know what you think!