In the fourth episode of the Innovation Realized podcast series, Errol Gardner, and host, Will Travis, discuss how an increasingly complex and disruptive environment is changing the characteristics of organizations, and how business leaders need to rethink their approach to transformational change.
Gardner explores the impact of remote working on workforce dynamics, and what his work, and passion for team sport, has taught him about the need for leaders to adapt their behavior and mindset to support their teams and encourage their commitment to change.
Last, but not least, he discusses the topic on everyone’s mind: technological disruption, particularly artificial intelligence (AI). Having spent nearly 35 years in the work environment, Gardner has seen a lot of technological advancement, and shares his views on navigating tech adoption, as well as how to avoid the common pitfalls of such a rapid pace of change.
This episode is part of the EY Innovation Realized podcast series by Elevation Barn. It is also available to listen to on Apple Podcasts.
Key takeaways:
- Change requires emotional commitment – everyone needs to align on the need, and feel passionate about doing so
- Create an environment of psychological safety where people feel comfortable to call out problems – before it’s too late
- Hone your sensory skills – be alert to necessary interventions “turning points” to keep transformations on track
- Great team captains recognize diversity of thought, that people are individuals, tailoring their approach to get each person on side
- When adopting new technologies like AI, be pragmatic – is it best to be a leader or fast follower?
- Focus on the long game versus short-term disruption
For your convenience, full text transcript of this podcast is also available.