We are at a critical juncture in terms of future-proofing businesses, and the way to do it is through a shift to new commercial thinking: collaboration, or the “we” space.
Why the critical nature of making sure we are on the right track in terms of vision, positioning in the market, the ability to step ahead of the pack and a willingness to work and engage as leaders of teams?
The world is one of constant change, innovation and invention. Business is a 24/7 brave new digiworld; information flow and the number of products, brands, concepts, apps and ideas available to the consumer is inexhaustible.
The phenomenal speed of change that got us to the 21st century’s technological frenzy is not going to slow, and it is creating an uncertain future.
There is a war between the need for stability and the need for growth. It is up to us to listen to the demands of this society and change how we operate accordingly so what we do aligns with — and leads — the new paradigm.
How do we as leaders cope with the demand to be the best and at the same time future-proof our businesses? It comes down to a concept that is relevant, adaptable and leads to what can be termed the “we” space of a fully engaged business environment, or commercial collaboration.
Those who have taken an early leap into the “we” space, recognising the inherent value in collaborative thinking at a commercial level and working together to share ideas, concepts, skills and intellectual property, are getting the jump on the bottom line.
Staying in the “me” space — working alone, keeping ideas, thought processes, even fears about the direction of the company to yourself — is fast becoming a risky practice.
A leader, manager or business owner who stands alone without the support and skills of a great team is missing out on the knowledge, talent and ideas necessary to stride ahead. A leader who works in the “me” space refuses to look outside their own business for collaborative opportunities, for fear their product or idea might be stolen or corrupted.
This new operating system of “we” is one where:
• Networks of connected individuals, communities and businesses work together to drive success.
• We bring our skills, strengths and talents to the table, and amplify and share expertise to create results-oriented solutions.
• Collective intelligence means we work smarter and faster together.
• Diversity and difference of opinion is the new competitive advantage.
Commercial collaboration creates momentum, drives new thinking, builds the resilience and determination needed to succeed, and enables individuals and businesses to explore possibilities and develop strategies to future-proof success. The “we” space is a practical framework and there are businesses and leaders who are succeeding by operating within its parameters. Those using the space well, and understanding the shift in thinking, understand the need to evolve. They are seeing streamlined procedures, a bottom line that is a healthy black rather than in the red, and employees who are happier and more productive.