An African proverb wisely states,
“When the roots are deep, there is no need to fear the wind.”
This sentiment resonates profoundly in today’s business landscape, where change is the only constant. Organisations that invest in deeply rooted foundations—particularly through their people—are better equipped to navigate the storms of disruption, whether from technological advancements, economic shifts, or global crises.
But not all organisations feel secure in their foundations. A PwC survey of over 4,700 CEOs worldwide revealed that
45% are concerned their companies won’t survive the next decade without significant transformation.
Even more concerning, the H2 2024 Leadership Confidence Index by Russell Reynolds Associates showed
a decline in leaders’ confidence in their executive teams, reaching the lowest point since tracking began in 2021.
Additionally, a global survey by Gartner found that
only 50% of employees agree that their team leader effectively creates a vision for the future of the team.
These statistics paint a troubling picture. They reveal a widespread sense of uncertainty at both the leadership and workforce levels. Leaders lack confidence in their orgs, employees lack confidence in their leaders, and few are confident about the future. This fragile foundation can be disastrous in a world defined by relentless disruption.
Lessons from COVID
The COVID-19 pandemic provided a powerful demonstration of this truth. A study published in Health Services Research found that
organisations with prior investments in adaptable cultures and employee support experienced unanticipated benefits during the crisis.
Similarly, McKinsey reported that
companies prioritizing reskilling and workforce adaptability were better positioned to build operating-model resilience.
These examples emphasize that organisations with strong foundations—rooted in resilience, adaptability, and employee support—are naturally more capable of weathering uncertainty.
Cultivating Deep Organisational Roots
To build resilience and ensure long-term viability, organisations must focus on strengthening their internal foundations. Here are key strategies to achieve this:
Embrace a Growth Mindset Culture:Foster a culture where continuous learning and adaptability are valued.
Prioritize Skill-Based Hiring and Development: Shift focus from traditional qualifications to skills and competencies, ensuring employees evolve alongside industry demands.
Foster Psychological Safety: Create an environment where employees feel safe to express ideas, take risks, and voice concerns without fear of retribution.
Implement Continuous Learning Programs: Invest in ongoing education and upskilling initiatives to keep the workforce agile.
Align with a Clear Purpose: Organisations that articulate and live by a clear mission and values inspire greater employee engagement and commitment.
Recognizing and Addressing Gaps
For organisations acknowledging that they may not be future-fit, the following steps can initiate meaningful change:
Diagnose Risks: Evaluate structural, systems and cultural dynamics to identify psychosocial hazards that cause harm to employees and business.
Engage Leadership: Ensure that leaders at all levels are committed to transformation and model desired behaviors.
Develop a Strategic Roadmap: Outline clear, actionable steps with defined timelines and measurable outcomes.
Communicate Transparently: Maintain open lines of communication to build trust and keep all stakeholders informed and engaged.
Monitor and Adjust: Regularly review progress, solicit feedback, and be prepared to pivot strategies as needed.
Conclusion
In an era marked by relentless change, the strength of an organisation lies in its foundational roots—its people, culture, and values. By investing in these areas, businesses not only enhance their resilience but also position themselves to thrive amidst uncertainty. As the proverb reminds us, deep roots eliminate the fear of the wind.
For those ready to embark on this transformative journey, remember: the most enduring growth begins beneath the surface.
About WellWise
WellWise is a global provider of workplace diagnostics, specializing in identifying and managing psychosocial and cultural risks that impact employee wellbeing and organisational health. Aligned with international standards, including ISO 45003, WellWise offers organisations a clear understanding of their workforce dynamics, providing evidence-based insights and actionable strategies for sustainable growth. For those ready to strengthen their organisational foundations, WellWise offers the clarity and support needed to thrive in a changing world.