What it’s all about
As a manager, you are constantly confronted with complex decisions. You have to assess and react to dynamic situations, relationships with employees and the company environment. Shifting perspective is a crucial tool that enables you to make informed decisions.
Leaders Hill
Our institute uses the metaphor “Leaders Hill” for this change of perspective. It illustrates very succinctly how important it is for leaders to adopt a unique perspective – a view that does not come from the immediate vicinity of day-to-day business, but from an elevated, higher position. This added dimension of observation allows you to see your own activities from a bird’s eye view, creating a more comprehensive understanding of operations, challenges and opportunities. This elevated position makes it possible to look beyond the immediate day-to-day work and develop a deeper understanding of one’s own leadership, its effectiveness and potential areas for improvement.
Understanding and empathy
A change of perspective allows you to see the world through the eyes of others. This leads to a better understanding of the needs, challenges and motivations of your employees and colleagues. Such a change of perspective promotes empathy and improves communication and cooperation within the team.
Conflict resolution
Conflicts often arise from misunderstandings or different points of view. When managers are able to understand the perspectives of others, they can find more effective ways to resolve conflicts. A change of perspective makes it possible to recognise the causes of a conflict and develop solutions that are acceptable to everyone involved.
Decision-making
The ability to look at a situation from different perspectives enriches the decision-making process. Rather than relying on a one-sided view, a change in perspective allows for the inclusion of different information and viewpoints, leading to more informed decisions.
Innovation and creativity
Innovative solutions often arise when managers are able to think outside the box. By changing perspectives, managers can develop new ideas and find creative approaches to challenges.
Employee loyalty and motivation
Employees feel valued and understood when their managers take their perspective into account. This increases employee motivation and loyalty, as employees feel that their opinions and needs are respected.
Adapting to change
In a rapidly changing business world, the ability to adapt to new circumstances is crucial. The change in perspective helps managers to understand change and analyse it from different angles. This enables them to react strategically to changes and proactively develop solutions.
Conclusion
Changing perspective is essential for managers. It not only enables a better assessment of conditions, situations and people, but also promotes empathy, improves decision-making and supports the development of innovative solutions.
Further reading
Here are 10 relevant literature sources on why a change of perspective is essential for managers:
- Ancona, D., Malone, T. W., Orlikowski, W. J., & Senge, P. M. (2007). In praise of the incomplete leader. Harvard Business Review, 85(2), 92-100.
- Bolman, L. G., & Deal, T. E. (2017). Reframing organizations: Artistry, choice, and leadership (6th ed.). Jossey-Bass.
- Drucker, P. F. (2004). What makes an effective executive. Harvard Business Review, 82(6), 58-63.
- Goleman, D. (2004). What makes a leader? Harvard Business Review, 82(1), 82-91.
- Heifetz, R. A., & Laurie, D. L. (1997). The work of leadership. Harvard Business Review, 75(1), 124-134.
- Ibarra, H. (2015). Act like a leader, think like a leader. Harvard Business Review Press.
- Kegan, R., & Lahey, L. L. (2009). Immunity to change: How to overcome it and unlock potential in yourself and your organization. Harvard Business Press.
- Kouzes, J. M., & Posner, B. Z. (2007). The leadership challenge (4th ed.). Jossey-Bass.
- Schein, E. H. (2010). Organizational culture and leadership (4th ed.). Jossey-Bass.
- Senge, P. M. (2006). The fifth discipline: The art and practice of the learning organization (Rev. ed.). Doubleday.
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