Getting Unbossed at Novartis

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What It’s About: Perhaps one of the most successful and respected companies in the world is Novartis. See their purpose statement: “Our purpose is to reimagine medicine to improve and extend people's lives. We use innovative science and technology to address some of society's most challenging healthcare issues. We discover and develop breakthrough treatments and find new ways to deliver them to as many people as possible. We also aim to reward those who invest their money, time and ideas in our company.”

I had the fun of recently talking to Jerh Collins, their worldwide head of People and Culture. One of their stated values as a company is: UNBOSSED. That’s a pretty dramatic value, and it comes right from the top. Their CEO and executive leadership believe it is fundamental to the sustainable success of the organization.

So What?: Here is what Jerh outlines as an example of their commitment to the matter:

“Our Unbossed Leadership Experience (ULE) guides leaders through the process of self-discovery and deep personal growth. A journey of personal transformation that enables behavioral shifts and self-awareness on how others see them and how as a leader, they can make a different impact on others. We plan to engage 20,000 leaders over the next three years, helping embed the new leadership approach in our organization.”

That is a WOW! Why would Novartis think and invest this way? The following sums up their belief system on this matter:

“Our people are most creative and productive when they are empowered to shape their work environment and pursue their ideas. We are focusing on encouraging leaders to remove obstacles and to empower their teams to reach their full potential. We are also equipping them with tools to be more self-aware and to set clear goals.

We want to develop inclusive leaders who are self-aware and able to empower their teams by creating clarity and accountability, removing obstacles and empowering and supporting others to reach their full potential. We are approaching this in two ways - by creating the right environment for our leaders to lead and by providing the necessary experience to enable them to succeed such as Choice with Responsibility.”

Now What?: There is an ever increasing divide between advanced and neanderthal thinking regarding leadership and culture. If you are playing an influential role in a company, where you still want leadership to be better bosses, you should probably resign or take a sabbatical. I’m serious. You probably still think that the boss’ key job is to tell people what to do. Let’s UNBOSS. Do you even know what that means or might look like? If not… Maybe it’s time to find out.

Think Big, Start Small, Act Now.

- Lorne

One Millennial View: When hiring and building teams, why would leaders be interested in any sort of babysitting? Work for and surround yourself with leaders who are already steps ahead of having to tell people what to do, before even inviting them onboard. If not, your team is not elite, and that means you aren’t either, or you’re stuck in the wrong place. Desire these high standards.

- Garrett

Edited and published by Garrett Rubis.

Getting Unbossed at Novartis

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