December 2004 FAQ:

What is the role of diplomacy in change leadership?

Answer:

The dictionary defines “diplomacy” as “tact: skill and tact in dealing with other people.” If we use that definition, then the answer is to always be tactful when dealing with all organization members about, in, or during change … because their feelings are at stake.

But its not that easy. I hear “diplomacy” used as the way we cause organizational change to happen … rather than a description of the way we behave while we cause the change to happen mean.

When a producer and director make the business decision to close the curtain on a play that has run its course and raise the curtain on a fresh play, their mechanism is authority and power, not diplomacy. They are chartered by owners/investors to decide and then execute the next profitable play, not to “diplomacy” the cast to a new play.

Teddy Roosevelt had it right, speak softly but carry a big stick (the economic one).

By: Dutch Holland, Ph.D.

Dutch Holland, CEO of HDI, has worked as a management consultant for 30 years, helping organizations and leaders manage and implement change successfully. And if you enjoyed this short article, you'll love his new book, Red Zone Management: Changing the Rules for Pivotal Times (Dearborn Trade, Chicago, Fall 2001). Check your local bookstores or read a review at amazon.com or barnesandnoble.com! Contact Dutch at 713.877.8130.

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