Common Characteristics of Real Change Leaders (RCLs)

(who are not necessarily at the top levels of an organisation)

. Commitment to a better way

. Collaborate with other staff members

. Loyal to colleagues

. Avoid office politics

. Courage to challenge existing power bases and norms

. Personal initiative to go beyond defined boundaries

. Motivation of themselves and others

. Care about how people are treated and able to perform

. Stay less-than-visible while giving the limelight or centre stage to others (includes allowing others to receive credit for ideas and performance)

. Sense of humour about themselves and their situation

. Do not use buzzwords

. Focus on emotions and feelings as well as facts and analysis

. Willing to violate well-established rules, even if this means putting their careers at considerable risk

(source: Jon Katzenbach et al, 1997)

Some Tips for a successful change leaders

Some highly desirable skills for an effective change agent are:
- be a good listener
- not to pre-judge anybody
- ask good, well-targeted questions, ie clarification questions.

It is important how you ask questions and to come with an open mind. Try to find out why people think the way they do.

Be careful about 'debating' with people or arguing back, as these will trigger the defensive response. Ideally you want to be in a position where you are actively learning from each other and building trust and good relationships.