June 16, 2011

The voice of transformation

Think: For your business to reach the next level, what must change?

Leaders are always turning that question over in their minds. So beginning today, the next several entries of the Ignition blog will explore organizational change – with a twist.

The twist is this: Each entry will center on one of the seven strategic points for transforming businesses as developed by a true pioneer in organizational development, Edwin C. Nevis.

We lost Edwin late last month; he passed away at his Massachusetts home on his 85th birthday. He was an extraordinary teacher and mentor to many, from world-renowned leaders to young, eager consultants seeking to create their own brand of change in the world.

I was one of those. The early days of my practice brought me to Edwin’s Brookline, Mass. townhouse, where on a rainy weekday afternoon I shared both ideas and questions about consulting in the insurance industry. One of the observations he offered his young client: “You have one foot on the accelerator and one foot on the brake.”

He was right. And his insight reflected careful listening, which Edwin always did so well. Over the years, I took classes with him, and he took an interest in me and my career. I was lucky to have known him.

Edwin’s most celebrated book was “Organizational Consulting,” written in 1987, but a book he authored nine years later holds special meaning to business leaders. Titled “Intentional Revolutions,” it puts forth the seven methods of influence that are essential to transformation. In a few days, we’ll talk a little about the first of these methods, persuasive communication.

It will never be known exactly how many organizations have successfully evolved because of the wisdom of Edwin C. Nevis. Safe to say, that number is extraordinarily high. The greatest honor we can give to such a man is to continue to learn from him.