The Art of Engagement

The author of this book, a strategy consultant, observes that companies do not need help in defining new strategies, as much as help in deploying the strategies they already have. In short, how to ensure that employees embrace the vision and move the company closer to achieve it in their day-to-day work?
In most organizations, there is a huge gap between what is theoretically possible and the reality, explained in large part by the lack of individual motivation. The author uses his experience to analyze in detail the reasons for this commonplace lack of engagement, i.e., overwork and too many often contradictory messages, an obscure and often obtuse strategy, fear of being vulnerable, excessively narrow vision of the company’s business, lack of acceptance, perceived disconnect between the strategy and operational reality, etc. He proposes practical tools to promote commitment, tested in the scope of his consulting projects. Several examples, such as those of Taco Bell, Pepsi, Blockbuster, Chrysler and Harley Davidson, are described in particular detail. They are a particularly good illustration of how organizations have used techniques such as the clarification of complex concepts with drawings or simulations to rebuild commitment and engagement.
A book full of common sense that adopts just the right tone to remind us that businesses are nothing without people, and offers numerous tips on inspiring people to be as committed as they once were when the company was originally founded.