CWHP-A Reflections: Unit WWC04

Kevin Oakes, the author of Culture Renovation, says “It takes time to tap into something people really care about and want to achieve. That power has real teeth. If people recognize your destination as someplace they want to go, they will help you get there.” Even the best-laid plans are at risk of failing if there is a lack of shared accountability and responsibility for its execution. Leadership has a key role in creating the shared vision, but they often fail to consider the internal capacity to implement the goals and objectives. In my experience, the strategic planning process is ‘owned’ by senior leadership and front-line staff lack understanding of not only the plan, but their role is in making it come alive. This disconnect could be avoided if existing groups, such as OHS committees, were clear about how the plan connects to the mission and values of the organization and to their day-to-day roles and responsibilities.

It is all about connecting the dots and having employees who are eager to contribute to a plan rooted in meaningful work for which they feel valued and appreciated.