Anarchy and Alchemy Work Together In Perfect Harmony!

Remember the tune by Sir Paul and Stevie Wonder, Ebony and Ivory? While I love those artists, this song drove me nuts back in the 80's because, once heard, it was next to impossible to get of your head. I stumbled on the song again recently and, in an effort to delete it from my mind, I have changed the words and have taken it in a new direction. Thus, the title of this post.

The last several places I have worked, two small companies, and a small one, that was bought by a big bank, all provided unique experiences for me. These were all financial software and services companies that cater to the back office of a financial institution. At each, my portfolio of skills has grown, my business acumen has expanded, and I have had the chance to work with some great people.

In looking back on what I have done, I have found a common theme. Each of these small companies had revenue growth desires, support and operations needs and clients that required a lot of attention. Therefore, each needed change focused around People, Process and Technology, or PPT, which was the focus of a recent post.

There is, however, a step that happens simultaneously as you make changes which will allow you to effectively implement PPT. 

First, you must create Anarchy.

Turnover all the desks, stand on rooftops, break all the rules - whatever you want to call it - but a total and complete disregard for the status quo is paramount for success. This is potentially painful and hard to do because, in my experience, difficult people and organizational decisions have to be made. These are never popular and no turnaround can be complete without them. Having the right seats in your company, organized correctly, with an "A" player sitting in each of them is, by far, the most important and first step on the long road to transformation. Emphasizing this has to come first because everything else you do will flow from these well-organized all-stars. Anarchy is a strong word but the right one in this context.

People issues in companies can only be solved by breaking down the barriers and silos that are known and protected by those that created them.

This is pick and shovel work and you will get your hands dirty. Too bad.

Next, start the Alchemy.

Alchemy is an almost magical transformation, turning metal to gold, an elixir or magical potion. For me, this is the fun stuff. You have a short span of time after the initial anarchy to try just about anything.  Take everything out of the toy box that is your creative self and give it a try. It is likely you couldn't do worse than the situation you walked into but choose carefully because you don't have much time. The people who invested in the company will be delighted by the new team of Jordan's but at the end of the day they want a return on committed capital. If you don't like that, get a job in a non-profit, or teach, both of which can be rewarding endeavors.  

If you find yourself in a start-up or turnaround situation you must start with a clean slate. After you blow everything up, bring in the all-star team and use them to mix a magic potion of success. 

“Anarchy and alchemy

Work together in perfect harmony”

Have fun getting this out of your head.

My Best,