Six Sigma is a time-tested method for improving your business and getting better results. But what is it that makes Six Sigma professionals better leaders? What skills and knowledge do they acquire that develops their leadership potential? Let’s find out.
1.Hands On experience:
Leadership comprises of skills that are learned through hands-on experience. The project work given by Six Sigma to professionals will include:
• Completing multiple projects in different functional areas
• Using Six Sigma tools and techniques
• Developing insights into leadership competencies
• Analyzing and improving processes
• Deep understanding of their task as well as tasks of their associates.
2.Business Knowledge:
Six Sigma helps professional accumulate an important understanding of the company, its business strategies, objectives, and its products and services. They also gain knowledge about relevant markets, customers and decision making. This gives them a perspective that is broader than that of a normal employee. It also gives them experience in networking and developing contacts. They are also equipped with the knowledge to focus on strategy related issues and not be distracted by low-priority tasks.
3.Management and improvement:
A Six Sigma leader knows to identify the most important tasks and monitor them. He knows to look out for indicators and improve processes to achieve better outcomes. He can also make good decisions. They are trained to think cross-functionally and look at the various factors involved while making a choice. They take into account various expectations and requirements and redesign processes to work towards continuous improvement.
4.Change Agents:
Six Sigma leaders start with a small-scale project and start implementing changes. They look at all the factors involved, consider all possible outcomes and bring about changes in the processes to improve efficiency. They learn how to overcome resistance to change and soon move on to bigger projects. They are equipped with active listening skills as well as strong communication skills. This helps them successfully guide people through the transition phase. Their interpersonal skills make them good and influential leaders.
Now that we know how Six Sigma enables professionals to become leaders let us look at certain things to keep in mind while using Six Sigma to develop leaders.
1. You need to select the right talent to ensure that the best people become the best leaders of teams tomorrow. A good candidate should be one who takes initiatives and performs tasks with minimum supervision. He should be able to work with a team as well mentor and communicate effectively. Above all, he must be an enthusiastic and energetic person with a passion to do better.
2. Developing a clear progression path is very important. Six Sigma is not a temporary assignment. It is a continuous process and therefore needs a clear structure and planning. The leaders must be aware of the role they will play along this path and contribute towards the common goal.
3. You may also need to provide the candidates with additional training such as developing strategy, financial planning. Marketing and sales techniques etc.
Six Sigma is a very efficient platform to convert your professionals into leaders. They are well equipped and trained to face challenges and make choices while guiding peers towards improved results. Six Sigma, therefore, is a highly useful tool to develop leadership and nurture the potential in your organization.