Thomas Edison, undoubtedly one of the most celebrated inventors of the 20th century, was the quintessential idea man. Over the course of his career he generated almost 1,100 patents including those of the light bulb, the phonograph, and the motion picture camera. Edison’s prolific career was not just a result of his ingenuity. Though his ideas were certainly the start of his success, it was the culture of execution that he created that propelled those dreams into realities that could be held in the public’s hands.
One of the most important roles that any leader or manager can possess is the ability to execute. After all, effective leaders not only populate their organizations with the best dreamers, but they also provide the structure necessary to transform those dreams into reality.
Before any action can even be planned, it is imperative that a company define their purpose (Mission) a healthy belief system (Values), and a vision and goals for the future. These are some of the beginning elements to creating a foundational structure that will support vibrant execution.
Once a solid foundation is laid, team members’ behaviors can be more effectively addressed. Every organization already has a culture in place, but some are more conducive to effective execution than others. It may be necessary to redefine certain cultural aspects for increased productivity. Keep in mind, however, that such behavioral changes may take up to three months to successfully take hold, are most effective when accompanied by sound frameworks and clear accountability, and become an integral component to the daily routine. While it is perfectly natural for these changes to bring about a bit of tension, they will eventually become just another aspect of the new norm of a more productive behavioral climate.
Such an efficacious environment will be best supported by a sound framework for execution. The leader’s most significant tasks include keeping the team’s eyes on the company’s goals and core ideology, proposed evolution, future brand, as well as the steps necessary to achieve the goals for the future. Such scaffolding will ensure that all key parties are working to realize the same priorities.
Building a highly productive climate is the most difficult charge for any organization’s leadership. Thoughtful planning, meaningful training, and continual reassessment will be necessary to build a true culture of execution. The greatest business paradigm occurs when great invention meets thoughtful execution. By creating such a productive atmosphere, you will ensure that your company’s efforts will reach the public, just like those of Thomas Edison.
Last week I wrote about my trip to the 
