adminShelter Chieza Change Management
As we say goodbye to the month of November, I must say it was not one of the easiest for me. The situation has been made even more challenging due to worsening liquidity constraints in the economy that have manifested in queues at some banks.Business analysts say the
situation is a result of low inflows of foreign direct investment, limited lines of credit and high cost of borrowing.
We do need a solution to the current liquidity crisis. As we look ahead to December what should be uppermost in our minds is how we can turn around the situation.
One of the critical issues that have been identified as a solution to the current challenge has been the need to create a positive image about the country in order to entice investment into the country.
Saying the right things and sending the correct messages according to Finance and Economic Development Minister Mr Patrick Chinamasa will not only allow foreign investors to see us in good light but could help reduce our country risk.
So as 2013 gives way to 2014 we need to be cognisant of this and resolve to do our part for our beloved Zimbabwe.
Perceptions about Zimbabwe start with us, what we say and do matters. We also need to reflect on what we have done throughout the year.
What contributions have we made and what contributions are we hoping to make going forward. However, for our efforts to have an impact on the economy we need to put our houses in order.
For industry and business in general this is the time to reflect on highs and lows during the year.
This is the time to remember the old cultures and habits and plan for the future. This knowledge will assist in your strategic planning sessions for next year.
This is also the time to reward old and new customers and to sound them on their experiences and expectations as your customers.
I still remember a situation where we invited our suppliers for one of these end-of-year gatherings and when we sought to find out about their experiences in doing business with us during that year we were horrified by the responses that we got. The suppliers complained about low levels of customer service. We immediately had to cancel the customer feedback sessions we had planned.
You can imagine the drama that unfolded with some members of the management team getting sacked. You should never get to this point where all your core stakeholders are completely dissatisfied with your performance.
If you are going to host a function for the end of the year, take time to slot in some moment of positive building for the company.
If you are given time as a manager to speak, avoid making a presentation to review your company strategy for the upcoming year.
This is also not the time for you to talk about our ideas of change within the company. In these dry moments, people are looking for ways to get motivated, praise those who deserve it.
I remember one of my former chief executives gave a compelling speech that all of us were on our feet before he finished. Do not forget to throw a function to celebrate those milestones and achievements you made in the year. 2014 can only be better than 2013.
Till next week, may God richly bless you.
l Shelter Chieza is an advisor in management issues. She can be contacted at [email protected] <mailto:[email protected]>
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