Monitoring the corporate pulse

My Apple Watch has become more than just a gadget. It has become an indispensable part of me. It’s a tool that keeps me in sync with myself. Sometimes, people wonder why I strap two timepieces on my wrists. My explanation is that my Apple Watch is digital tech, which points me to the future. The one on my other wrist represents a classic timepiece I have worn for years that reminds me of the past. And here I am in the middle, which reminds me to be mindful of the present. Then I smile, and people laugh. A good friend says, “You always have a story and an explanation behind things, but you just can’t dispatch with the attachment you have for timepieces. But I still needed the last word, so I said, “Yes, time is the most essential resource we have.” And that puts an end to the conversation.

As I exercise, this sleek device tracks more than just my steps; it monitors a vital sign beyond mere movement – my pulse rate. I monitor it closely, and when the pulse rate indicates a high count, I will not push myself to do more reps until I rest a little.

Organizations, like the human body, possess a pulse demanding attentive monitoring. Just as the Mayo Clinic emphasizes that a healthy resting heart rate should fall within 60 to 100 beats per minute, organizations also possess a pulse that needs to be understood and kept within a healthy range. Just as irregular heartbeats can indicate underlying health issues, the pulse of an organization reveals vital insights about its health. Steadily high or consistently low-performance levels and irregularities signal potential trouble. Leaders must become adept at sensing and interpreting its pulse to cultivate a flourishing organization.

As the saying goes, “Connected leaders have the pulse of an organization and its people.”

Just as a pulse is best measured using specialized devices like watches and other medical devices, leaders utilize their presence, intuition, and communication skills to ensure their teams operate optimally.

There should be a connected leadership where actions and intentions are aligned.

One must embrace the lessons different body parts offer to embody connected leadership. Each piece teaches a unique aspect of leadership that fosters a robust organizational pulse.

Feet: True leadership begins with feet that tread the hallways of the organization. Leaders prioritize their physical and mental presence, ensuring they are attuned to the daily dynamics that shape the organization’s rhythm.

Ears: Simon Sinek’s wisdom that “listening is hearing what isn’t said” reflects the essence of connected leadership. Active listening is not just about hearing words; it’s about empathetically discerning underlying sentiments, contributing to a healthier organizational pulse.

Eyes: Eyes, the windows to the soul, can also offer insight into the organization’s well-being. Meaningful eye contact enhances understanding and bridges communication gaps, allowing leaders to nurture a stronger connection.

Mouth: Communication, the lifeline of connected leadership, requires directness. Just as messages can become distorted in a game of telephone, leaders must communicate clearly and ensure their words align with their actions to maintain a strong connection.

Hands: Actions amplify words, and leaders who consistently demonstrate alignment between their words and deeds cultivate stronger bonds. St. Francis of Assis’s admonition, “Preach the gospel at all times and use words, if necessary,” underscores the power of consistent action.

Face: Amid the challenges of leadership, an approachable demeanor is essential. A warm smile can dissolve barriers and encourage collaboration. Leaders who wear welcoming expressions foster openness and communication, bolstering the organizational pulse.

Fingers: Authenticity is the linchpin of connected leadership. Amid the sea of influencers, leaders must remember that their unique fingerprint is their authenticity. Authenticity breeds relatability, nurturing bonds that transcend hierarchy.

Much like our own health, organizational health necessitates regular evaluations. Like a proactive health checkup, monitoring the organizational pulse ensures potential issues are detected early, preventing irreversible damage.

To safeguard an organization’s vitality, leaders must continuously ask, “How’s the pulse of your organization? Are you a connected leader?”

As Ralph Nader aptly noted, “The function of leadership is to produce more leaders, not more followers.” A connected leader nurtures the organization’s health and empowers others to rise. Just as a healthy heart guarantees a longer life, a robust organizational pulse ensures sustained success.

Stay connected, stay impactful! Just as my Apple Watch helps me monitor my heartbeat, your actions, empathy, and authenticity will help you monitor the pulse of your organization. This pulse defines its health, triumphs, and future. And having a classic watch on your other wrist wouldn’t be too bad.

(Francis Kong’s podcast “Inspiring Excellence” is now available on Spotify, Apple, Google, or other podcast streaming platforms).