CEOs: To Add Value, Remove the Friction

When the earth is moving under your feet, you had better move.

Too many of us tend to error toward immediate safety and not the long-term win. We want short-term results and the absolute safety of our decision at the same time. This view is irrational and dangerous.

If you are the CEO, you will not be taking a victory lap in your chariot in five years if you miss the digital transformation imperative. You could be categorized as a dimwit—someone who didn't grasp digital business and harmed the very company you were supposed to lead. I apologize if this hurts anyone's feelings; heavy is the crown and that sort of thing. 

There are at least 20 synonyms for a dummy. The CEO who doesn't prioritize removing friction for customers and employees will be called most of them—fool, nincompoop, clown, idiot, ninny, chump, chowderhead, and bonehead. When our leaders ignore the gathering storm and sail right into it, those we led into the danger can judge us harshly.

Here's a question we all need to ask: 

Why did it take a pandemic for digital culture to accelerate for many companies?  

It's tiresome that an existential threat is the only thing that can force change. Who were the voices in the wilderness? Why didn't we listen? What's going on with our culture?

How many were CIOs and HR leaders were dismissed by the CEO when they suggested more people could be just as productive working from home before the pandemic? If you are a director of a company that wasn't on a fast track to change before the pandemic, these are constructive questions for the next board meeting. 

A culture of experimentation is too often missing. CEOs focusing on the rearview mirror and their fears neglect the earth moving under their feet. The board can help by being business model supportive and yes, emotionally supportive with real ideas.

What we all need are CEOs that encourage new ideas and the leverage of digital transformation. Remove friction - should be the business cry of the CEO. You must assume the competition is removing the friction that adds value to the customer and employee experience. How will you answer the bell?