This document discusses the importance of leading with why. It notes that most change efforts fail despite having a good idea, clear instructions, and performance controls. Leading with why means connecting changes to what motivates and inspires staff. The document emphasizes telling a story that explains the reasons and purpose behind changes, rather than just giving instructions. This helps gain support from more people for the leader's vision.

1. @robertvarnam #LeadWithWhy
Lead with why
@robertvarnam #LeadWithWhy

2. @robertvarnam #LeadWithWhy

3. @robertvarnam #LeadWithWhy

4. @robertvarnam #LeadWithWhy

5. @robertvarnam #LeadWithWhy

6. @robertvarnam #LeadWithWhy

7. @robertvarnam #LeadWithWhy
Leading change
80% of what leaders say fails to connect
with what their staff care about
Worldwide, most change efforts fail, despite usually having:
• A good idea
• A clear list of instructions for what people should do
• A strong focus on controlling performance to reach the goal
Good ideas, instructions and controls aren’t enough.

8. @robertvarnam #LeadWithWhy

9. @robertvarnam #LeadWithWhy
Who’s paid them?
Who told her to
do that?
What is the
performance
management
framework?
Who’s running
this?

10. @robertvarnam #LeadWithWhy
Where to start?
“Here’s what
you need to do”
versus
“I have a dream”

12. @robertvarnam #LeadWithWhy

13. @robertvarnam #LeadWithWhy
It’s about the narrative
… tell a story
that connects with
why they’re here
How do you get so many people
doing things you tell them?
Sarah-Jane Marsh
@BWCHBoss

14. @robertvarnam #LeadWithWhy

15. @robertvarnam #LeadWithWhy
Resourc
es
The power of one, the power of many
bit.ly/powerofonemanypdf
Motivation at work
bit.ly/12g66zh
School for Change Agen
horizonsnhs.com/school/
Start with why
youtu.be/IPYeCltXpxw [short]
youtu.be/qp0HIF3SfI4 [long]
Leading with
purpose
vimeo.com/103429228