Success is not about recruiting exceptional talents but nurturing them within the organization’s system. This statement comes from Tadamis Matsui, chairman of Muji, in his book “90% of Muji is Structure.” Many successful entrepreneurs emphasize the importance of talent development. Similarly, Lee Hyung-woo, chairman of Midas IT, states in his book “People Are the Answer” that it is more important for organizations to nurture talent in a way that aligns with their natural tendencies rather than merely recruiting them.
Why is a Self-Growing Organization Important?
When first starting a business, many people think they need to recruit great talent. However, over time, they realize that without an environment where talent can grow, even the most exceptional employees will only achieve limited results. Ultimately, for an organization to grow sustainably, it must create a self-growing structure.
Creating such a structure requires a significant role from leaders. Leaders need to understand their role in shaping organizational culture and introduce appropriate methodologies. At Midas IT, the role of leaders is defined as “nurturing members through successful experiences.” This applies equally to personal growth. Small successes enable larger challenges, and growth occurs within those challenges.
How to Grow Through Small Successes
To build a successful organization, it is crucial to create a culture where small successes are achievable. Additionally, it is essential to learn how to set personal goals to achieve these successes. Leaders should not strive to achieve their own results but should instead create an environment where team members can succeed. This approach enhances the overall performance of the organization.
The Importance of Psychological Safety and Feedback
To foster a culture where members continuously set goals and take on challenges, psychological safety is necessary. This begins with not criticizing failures or missed goals. Feedback is a crucial process that uses failures and mistakes as a driving force to try again.
For example, when giving feedback, phrases like “Anyone can make that mistake,” and “How about trying this next time?” can help members grow. In this way, when leaders genuinely care about the growth of their team members, those members become more positive and proactive.
The Importance of Consistency Between Words and Actions
To create a ‘self-growing organizational culture,’ systems such as OKR (Objectives and Key Results), strength-based job assignments, and company-wide manual projects are necessary. Trust is essential for implementing these systems. Leaders must strive to keep their promises. When leaders’ words and actions align, members trust them and positively engage in new projects.
Conclusion
Leaders play a crucial role in fostering a self-growing organizational culture by providing small success experiences and creating an environment where team members can achieve results. They should also provide psychological safety to encourage members to try again after failures and genuinely communicate their desire for team members’ growth. Finally, leaders must build trust through consistency between their words and actions.
References
- Tadamis Matsui, chairman of Muji, “90% of Muji is Structure.”
- Lee Hyung-woo, chairman of Midas IT, “People Are the Answer.”