When we think about cutting edge technology, we often think about new devices, new processes or breakthrough discoveries in medicine that will change the way we live our lives — technological shifts that often happen long before we become aware of them.
But what about cutting edge discoveries regarding the technology of people? Who is working on or driving forward that thinking and research?
What alchemists in long white coats are busy in a lab now mixing the “chemicals,” exploring the competencies, capabilities or behaviors that will unleash the next iteration of the technology of people?
When I set out to explore this realm, I wasn’t even quite sure where to begin looking. Is this field of study centered in neuroscience research? I doubted it would be found in research looking at the pathology of the nervous system. I thought there must be some “people lab,” where the best and brightest minds gathered to explore the basic technology of people. The results would offer greater clarity on what makes people tick? What works better than anything we are doing now to elicit the best they have to offer? More importantly, how would we even use or leverage these new discoveries? How would we use them in service to the people themselves as well as the organizations and customers they serve?
What purpose or benefit would organizations have by unleashing the latest version of the technology of people?
How would the customers of these organizations benefit from the latest cutting edge technology of people?
I believe this movement is already afoot, a movement so incredibly strong that it breaks through the barriers of traditional employee development and communication. It breaks down the barriers created by the silo mentality of leaders who are insecure about who they are and protective of their little organizational fiefdoms.
Parallels to this idea of shattering old ways to bring innovation and growth abound in literature, art and philosophy. Pablo Picasso said it best: “Every act of creation is first an act of destruction.” This new technology breaks down those organizational silos while simultaneously rebuilding the confidence of leaders and their teams. Together, with this newfound confidence, they will continue to drive organizational growth and enhance the resiliency of a new company culture. Great leaders will arise from the destruction of outdated thinking. These leaders of the future will foster, influence, inspire and leverage all of the latest technology of people and deliver extraordinary results not yet dreamed of in their organizations.
Ok and where are these alchemists now in your organization?
John S. Arnold can be reached at john.s.arnold.com, or emailing john @johnsarnold.com or by calling 954.796.6001.