9.5 Leadership



Leadership: The art of getting someone else to do something you want done because he wants to do it. (Dwight D. Eisenhower, 34th President of the United States)

Most of us do not like to be told what to do, but we don't mind being shown a better way to do things. Every organization has leaders; some of them are at the top of the organization and some are not. The implementation of an Asset Management program utilizes leadership at all levels, but it is extremely important that top levels of management understand and support the program. Without the endorsement of the Board or Council or other governing entity, the implementation can flounder for lack of funds or the inability of employees to see the importance of the program. On the other hand, a top-down mandate can generate resistance.

We let them know as an organization that they do matter. Asset Management stems from theemployees more than anything else.
--Stan Allred, Albuquerque, NM

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For these reasons, top level buy-in is critical. Total participation throughout all levels of the organization might be gained gradually. As the process gains momentum, and success is achieved, and as people receive training, buy-in will increase at all levels. People will come on board as they see the benefits. This is where true leadership comes in. A good leader can help people understand their role in the overall process without forcing their participation.