08: Generative Leadership

We've been working through the Genysys Group Organizational Transformation Model and discussing the real elements that are vital for both organizational and personal transformation. Ray Rood is the architect of the Organizational Transformation Model that has been central to the work of Genysys. Listen in to find out what Ray has to share on the show today. In this episode, we are going to be dealing with Generative Leadership, which is the final element of transformation. The Generative Leader is a very significant kind of leader and this model was Ray's last discovery in terms of the Transformational Model. Ray often has an unusual take on things which causes people to think a little differently, so listen in today as he explains what he means by Generative Leadership, the skills that are necessary for a Generative Leader, and how Generative Leadership works within the process of transformation. Show Highlights: What Ray means by the term Generative Leadership and how it relates to transformation. We have talked before about Catalytic Leadership, which is the most dangerous type of leadership because it is disruptive and it initiates change. Transformational Leadership is the most difficult because it deals with time, patience, and perseverance, in order for that change to become rooted into an organizational system or within a person's own self. Why Generative Leadership is the most important kind of leadership. Ray believes that any person can develop skills and understand some of the skills and tasks that are involved with the three types of leadership. Some of us are more wired, in terms of our temperament and experience, towards one specific form of leadership. Why Generative Leadership relates to wisdom. Ray explains the skills that make an effective Generative Leader. Ensuring the relevance of the soul of an organization, or of a person. Asking meaningful and relevant (and sometimes irritating or uncomfortable) questions is probably, on a functional basis, the most important thing that a Generative Leader does. Ray tells a story to illustrate the role of a Generative Leader. A Generative Leader is a mentor- and a mentor askes the mentee questions. The third skill of a Generative Leader- capturing, modeling, and applying learning - is the most difficult. The Generative Leader is really the ultimate learner. Until you understand something fully, you can't use it. The fourth skill is about the future. It's the task and the knowledge that is necessary to ensure and prepare the leadership for the future. The future leadership is likely to be of a different form to the leadership. Why it is so challenging to be a Generative Leader. Ray's biggest challenge, and his greatest joy, as a Generative Leader. Development takes place between challenge and support. The role of the horse, in Ray's story of the Golden Feather, is a Generative Leader. Links: The Genysys Group website: www.genysysgroup.com Amy blogs and writes at www.theartofpoweringdown.com