In companies far and wide, there are people who are true “agents of change.” They are distinctly different from others, comprising no more than 10 percent of employees, at least that is the educated guess of business advisors Jack and Suzy Welch.

Small business owners have something these agents of change often lack: They have the power to make their visions come true. They are leaders.

True change agents see a future no one else does, and that vision won’t let them rest. In fact, it can border on paranoia; but, typically, they have seen problem situations before and have the courage to move forward.

Some leaders just talk about the future and what they could do to change it. Change agents are willing to take bold actions and to accept the consequences, whether they be good or messy. Usually there are no clear-cut answers about how the change will play out, but that doesn’t stop them.

They have another quality that many others do not. It’s the ability, and maybe the charisma, to generate enthusiasm for their plan. They can turn people on.

Contrary to what is often thought about change agents, they are not “Lone Ranger” types. The best ones have a group of supporters cultivated through their intensity and caring.

They know that positive change happens faster when people are emotionally involved and have a knack for making that happen. Their people buy into the change, not because they have to, but to see the company survive or thrive and their own futures thrive along with it. What’s more, it’s exciting and fun to move forward.

Change agents in large corporations may be burning with desire for their plan but don’t have the power to initiate it. Business owners have that power, plus the ability to hire, promote and reward those who embrace the change.

How can your small business bring change today?

Maria Smith-Alvira

http://www.acommunityonline.com

follow me on twitter: fudgynet