My experience in banking (22+ years. I know, I'm a slow learner <g>) is
that the "regulatory mentality" that prevails combined with the radical
change in the industry in the last five to seven years has led to a feeling
of being powerless and that any form of planning is a waste of time because
participants are not in control of their destiny/company. The rational
counter that if you give up and make no effort to influence or plan you are
doomed to realize your worst fears doesn't seem to penetrate the overall
morass. My approach has been to try to get groups to focus on those areas
where they perceive they have some influence/control and determine (i.e.,
plan) how they can improve activities or events in those areas. Starting
with small steps and achieving some level of success will often make them
willing to venture on to larger issues. If you can't get them to problem
solve on business issues or if the team is not work well as a unit yet take
them entirely outside of the box and have them work on problem solving in
totally non business related areas. We have found that this often empowers
people to go back and look at their original situation with "fresh eyes"
and a willingness to tackle their business problems.
All the best,
John
Transformation Management, Inc. Personalized Art, Ltd.
Management Consulting Unique Custom Gifts
http://www.transformation-mgt.com http://www.personalized-art.com 5174 Blazer Memorial Parkway, Dublin, OH 43017
TMI: (614)457-3295 Fax: (614)457-3291 PAL: (614)457-5112