Successful leaders who shift their attention to tackling big, societal problems can be overwhelmed by how little control they actually have. But, by using network-building and collaboration skills, they can navigate a path to successful innovation and transformational change. Here are the stories of three such efforts and the six essential lessons for attracting support for change they illustrate.
Networking Doesn’t Have to Be Self-Serving
Build a coalition to help you take on our biggest social problems.
March 06, 2020
Summary.
How can individual leaders help to tackle some of big social problems? It can seem like an overwhelming, impossible task. But successful change agents have shown that networking and communication skills are key. They show up, in person, to investigate the issues and build relationships on the ground. They knock on many doors to build a diverse coalition. They offer help before they ask for it. They approach everyone with a learning mindset. They plant seeds with and pre-sell ideas to disparate groups, then bring them together. And, finally, they demonstrate progress and deliver on goals.
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New!
HBR Learning
Leveraging Your Networks Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Leveraging Your Networks. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
Map, assess, and strengthen your professional relationships.