In past messages we have discussed concepts like mission, vision, and shared values and how these impact IMC USA. This month we discuss change, disruption, and resiliency and what these concepts mean for our organization.

Change continues to be the theme. It is constant and influences every aspect of human experience. Change impacts organizations and people. Change has definitely impacted IMC USA and its members.

Disruption may occur with significant change that happens over a prolonged period of time or is unexpected. Disruptors include technological advances, demographic dynamics, or geopolitical instability. Disruptors can have both positive and negative influences on organizations. Specific circumstances of the organization and the relative position in the marketplace determine the extent of an influence on an organization.

The COVID-19 global pandemic is an example of a disruptive event. It interrupted the normal course of activities for individuals and organizations on a significant scale, caused major loss of life and changed the way we live, work, learn, and play.

Resiliency is the ability to recover from difficulties or overcome challenges. Resiliency enables organizations to effectively adapt to disruption and changing circumstances. There are methods that can be employed to enable organizations like IMC USA to navigate change and survive disruptive events.

One method for an organization is to consider and embrace its vision over the near and long-term. Staying focused on the targeted goals and having a plan to reach them can be an effective way to generate excitement and the resulting progress so that positive outcomes are achieved.

Another method is to play to the strengths of the organization. Groups of people assembled to perform a mission have a combined set of capabilities. These unified talents, skills and shared experiences can be enriched by the energy of the team working together to satisfy requirements and make progress towards the vision.

These methods or strategies coupled with efforts to exploit existing partnerships and develop new ones are a force multiplier. Assembling stakeholder groups with common goals, sharing resources, and working together has the potential to increase the likelihood of producing the desired results.

Finally, everyone in the organization must get engaged in the effort. Leadership is not just found in a title or position; it exists at all levels of the enterprise. It must be deployed especially during times of crisis, uncertainty and challenge.

Resilience enables organizations to prepare for, adapt and change when disruption occurs so that the organization continues to function and can thrive throughout the period of challenge and over the long-term.  

On behalf of the board of IMC USA, I wish you a healthy, happy and prosperous holiday season and New Year. Best wishes!