The leading edge or positive productivity is not a step by step system or a process, it is a “way” of understanding and relating to others, a way of “leading”. It requires a higher level of awareness of others, a fundamental shift or transformation in the relationship between employer (The organisation) and and employee, between managers and employees and between the employees themselves. For this new way to work there cannot be an “us and them” there can only be a “we”. Each individual must know that they are vital to the work of the organisation, that they are respected, and that their unique qualities and skills are valued, and they will be encouraged to grow and develop in line with their interests and capacities. As much as possible the implicit “contract” that the employee assumes they have made with the organisation should be respected and can be respected because the ” best interests of the organisation and the employees will be in alignment.

It also requires, or perhaps will result in, a change in our relationship to work and the workplace. Worker are not replaceable parts of a huge machine that need to be controlled, directed and restrained. They are your most valuable asset. When we work we should feel that we are being engaged in a valuable enterprise that challenges and fulfils us. That we are being supported to contribute not forced to conform. We need to understand and contribute to the broader vision of the organisation and to the way in which our effort will contribute to the ends. We need to understand the ” why” nof our effort as much ad the “what” and “how”.

The transformation is not about a new vision or mission statement, it is not about branding or positioning. It is not about changed processes ( although these may result) or change management. It is not even about finding a “new way to do business”. It is about an internal transformation of how we “are” in our business.

There will be a leading culture not a culture of leadership. The new leader will enable and support every person to lead whenever appropriate in what ever way is appropriate to whatever level they are able.

The new leader will be focused on building strong relationships, in developing people, in synthesising information and guiding collective effort. They will see those they work with as their partners in the enterprise.