Truth is, Senior Leaders Are Wrong

We have much evidence showing that senior leaders are often out of touch – even in sustainable companies. And the problem is they will have a hard time creating a shared vision if they don’t understand the culture.

Let’s look at some of the issues:

Senior Leaders Misjudge Employees’ Views

We have 10 years of data that show senior leaders’ views do not match employees’ perceptions of the organization culture. They simply don’t agree on how the company functions from day-to-day.

The Disconnects Shock Leaders

Invariably, leaders are astonished when we bring the disconnects to their attention. They simply cannot comprehend how they could be wrong about how their employees view the company culture.

Positive Perceptions Deteriorate From Executives Down

Front-line leaders and employees have the worst perceptions of the organizational culture.

Sustainable Companies vs. Others

These differences show up even in sustainable companies – although the disparities aren’t as great.

Our Conclusions

Most top-level leaders do not have their fingers on the pulse of the organizations they lead.

Implications for Sustainable Companies

It will be difficult for the leaders to “sell” their visions if they don’t understand the culture of their organizations.

How to Address the Disconnects

• Ask questions and pay attention.
• Take periodic pulse checks.
• Interact with a wide representation of the workforce – not just other senior leaders.
• Demonstrate your commitment to your vision and values through your actions.
• Lead the charge to embed the vision and values into the culture!

More About How to Address the Disconnects

I talk more about this on my podcast episode, Show Your Values: How Leaders Can Make Values Real