Want change? Let the tribe do it!



Have you ever wondered why a new idea “catches on” in one organization but “withers and dies” at another? Have you tried to lead a change in your organization only to be met by resistance?

In the book, “Tribal Leadership,” the authors (Logan, King & Fischer-Wright) say that tribes get the work done in organizations. Therefore, you need the support of the tribes in order to get anything done.

Well, that sounds interesting but I couldn’t find any tribes on the organization chart.

That’s because tribes are not an official team or department.

Tribes (or affinity groups) are groups of people who choose to rally around a common cause – something they believe in.

For successful change, tap into the tribe or affinity group leader – another person you won’t find on an org chart.

The tribe or affinity group leader and the tribe or affinity group are formed together. The leader works to build up the tribe or affinity group and members then recognize that person as the leader. The leader builds up the tribe or affinity group by helping them to start talking about their common cause – it could be an unfair policy or a shared belief in equality.

Whatever the cause is, the leader starts the conversations and brings others into the discussions. Soon a tribe or affinity group is formed around the topic.

The tribe or affinity group leader is the person who others respect. Members seek their opinions – regardless of their title. To find the tribe or affinity group leader look for someone who is well connected. Talk to this person.

For maximum success, get the tribe or affinity group leader on your project team, or bring them in as a key stakeholder for giving feedback on the project.

If you are blind to group dynamics you will struggle to get your change accepted and implemented. In many cases, the change will out-right fail!

Without the support of the tribe or affinity group leader, your change has a small percentage of success. Good luck!

Let's talk about getting people involvement in change. Let's talk!