The New Leader's 100-Day Action Plan

Chapter 7Strengthen the OrganizationGet the Right Team in Place by Day 70.

Of all the tools in your toolbox, putting people in the right roles is one of the most powerful. It is also the most explosive. As you seek to evolve (or shock!) the culture, these moves will be the most decisive and will have the greatest impact.

Often, team members of a culture or organization that is beginning to evolve will watch and wait to see whether there are any consequences for not evolving with the new culture. They will pay particular attention to the team members who say things like, “All that meeting and report stuff is fine, but if it means I have to change what I do, forget it!” The moment somebody is terminated or moved or promoted, those who have been resisting the change often develop a completely different view of things. There is no single way to impact culture more quickly than changes to the organization.

Everybody on the team feels it when people moves are made. Everyone will have an opinion (usually strong) on the moves and how they affect him or her. Personnel moves spark emotions, fears, and egos, so you need to be thoughtful about who, what, and especially when you move people. Recognize that moving people should actually be seen as your most potent communication tool: This person means business and means it now!

As a leader, you can help your team and the people you're working ...