Emma BennetThe funny truth is, we are all lean leaders in some capacity. Just think about it. When you take a moment to glance inside your cupboards at home, what do you find? I bet that your pots and pans are conveniently placed near your stove or oven. Am I right? Moreover, I’m willing to bet $5 that you’ve arranged your coffee cups near your coffee machine or kettle. And, I’m quite certain that your prized glassware is tucked away in the topmost cupboard, accessible only to those over 6ft tall. It might seem overly simplistic, but that, my friends, is the essence of lean: having what you need, exactly where you need it, ready for when you need it. If we can implement this mindset in our homes, why not take it a step further and apply it in our workplaces?
Diving deeper into the matter, I feel compelled to stress that lean leadership is not simply about organising your work “cupboards” more efficiently. It goes beyond basic cost-cutting measures or procedural simplification. The true lean leadership approach involves adopting a specific mindset that fervently champions continuous improvement and is committed to nurturing people’s development.
With that said, let’s delve into the distinguishing traits that shape a Lean Leader.
At the very core, lean leaders drive change through empowerment, not dictation. Recognising that an organisation’s true value lies within its people, lean leaders cultivate an environment where everyone’s voice is heard and appreciated, and responsibility for continuous improvement is a shared endeavour. They encourage their teams to challenge conventional wisdom, embrace calculated risks, and view failures as opportunities to learn and grow. As a lean leader, I don’t swoop in to fix problems for my team; instead, I guide them towards finding their own solutions. This approach instils a culture where problem-solving and learning become integral to the organisational ethos.
Additionally, lean leaders keep a relentless focus on one prize: customer value. We understand that resources directed towards outcomes that customers don’t value, like excessive packaging, merely increase costs in time and materials. Lean leaders align their efforts with what truly adds value to the customer experience, whether it’s seamless service, top-notch product quality, or a personalised approach. Understanding our customers and what they truly value sets the foundation for aligning our processes and systems to deliver value efficiently.
Moreover, a lean leader’s culture is steeped in respect. It’s more than asking after someone’s weekend or sharing a laugh over lunch. It’s about creating an inclusive work environment where everyone’s ideas are truly valued, and each individual’s unique contributions are recognised. Lean Leaders believe in investing time and resources into nurturing the skills and potential of every team member.
Furthermore, lean leaders embody adaptability. We understand that the ability to adjust and evolve is critical in today’s rapidly changing business landscape. Leading by example, we show our teams that shifting gears is not only acceptable but often necessary when circumstances change. This fosters a culture that doesn’t merely tolerate change but actively pursues it as an opportunity for growth.
Finally, lean leaders are committed to long-term results. We understand that sustainable success doesn’t happen overnight. While quick wins are certainly motivating and validating, they are not our ultimate goal. Our focus is on driving lasting change and creating enduring value for the organisation through the patient and consistent application of Lean principles.
In wrapping up, I want to emphasise that Lean Leadership isn’t simply a destination to be reached but an enriching journey of continuous learning and growth. It’s about dedicating oneself to the principles of Lean and guiding others to do the same while learning practical strategies for embracing the Lean leadership mindset. Until our next chat, reflect on how you can start incorporating these principles in your role. Whether you’re a CEO or an intern, remember that every transformation starts with a single step. Keep these traits in mind, and you’re already on the path to becoming a lean leader.
I often find myself contemplating the beauty of this journey, and I encourage you to do the same. Ponder over your work day, see the value in tasks performed, and identify the wasteful activities. You’ll be surprised how the Lean principles naturally start to make sense, just like organising your kitchen at home.
So, how about we take this journey together? Let’s step into those lean leader shoes and stride confidently towards a more efficient future. No, scratch that – a leaner future! After all, lean is not just about efficiency; it’s about eliminating waste, adding value, and continuously improving.
Each one of us has the potential to lead with lean principles, and it starts with embracing the Lean mindset. It’s about viewing your work from a different perspective and daring to question the status quo. Lean Leadership might seem like a massive shift, but remember, it all begins at home – or in your cupboards, to be precise.
Let’s remember to appreciate the small victories along the way, like a successfully implemented change or a team member taking the initiative to solve a problem. These victories may seem minor, but they’re building blocks towards our leaner future. I’m excited to take this journey with you, and I’m eager to hear about your own experiences and insights along the way.
Until next time, remember – keep your pots and pans close, but keep your Lean principles closer!
Emma Bennett
Business Improvement Consultant and Coach
