I recall a business analyst saying to me "I don't know why you want me to look at that measure again, the rate hasn't changed since the last time I reviewed it." I explained that the lack of improvement was precisely the reason I wanted him to look at it again. I was shocked by his blasé attitude towards performance management, but I was pleased that he'd given me an idea for another article! Standing still will usually result in your organisation moving backwards because whilst you stagnate your competitors will all be attempting to move forward. Unless you're in a rowing boat or a tug-of-war team, forward momentum is key to success. If you become complacent about your performance, you'll soon start shipping customers, and then you'll get that sinking feeling! There are quite a few rowing themes within my tips for improving performance, but they're intended to help you move forward, not backwards! I've captured them on a slide - I hope you find it useful. Please use the following link to check out my full article on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/situational-leadership-one-size-doesnt-fit-all-jon-stephenson

1. Business Transformation – taking a balanced approach!
• Develop a set of purpose-led objectives – ensure they satisfy the needs of your stakeholders
• Look at everything with a fresh pair of eyes – remember you’ve also got a fresh pair of ears!
• Engage with the people doing the work – ask them what is, and what isn’t, currently working
• Understand the rationale behind current processes – apply the Five Whys to delve deeper
• Take it one step at a time – don’t just rush into things as you may end up falling flat on your face!
• Be careful with the so-called low-hanging fruit – they may turn out to be poisoned apples!
• Assess the full impact of your proposals
– on the end-to-end process and your existing KPIs
• Ensure that all the benefits are realised
– guard against celebrating successes prematurely
• Admit your mistakes if things go wrong
– learn fast, adjust, and then take corrective action
• Check in regularly with all stakeholders
– take them with you rather than go back for them!
Jon Stephenson
https://uk.linkedin.com/in/stephensonjon