Synergy is defined as a cooperative or combined action and occurs when diverse or disparate individuals or groups collaborate for a common cause. The objective is to increase effectiveness by sharing perceptions and experiences, insights, and knowledge. (Cultural Synergy & Moran, Abramson, & Moran, 2014, p . 266)
In Harvard Business Review, Chevreux, Lopez, & Mesnard (2017) discuss ways in which companies create synergy within a company by striking a balance between strategy and purpose. I found this article particularly interesting in analyzing synergy because it added a new element of strategy. Research on synergy has long focused on groups being purpose driven and goal-oriented for synergistic success, the authors here depict a world where synergy is enhanced when strategy serves your purpose.
Additionally, Chevreux, Lopez, and Mesnard outline 4 criteria for leaders to improve the synergy at their companies.
- Know Your Purpose
- Identify your shared values and goals
- Aim for the Golden Mean
- Finding balance within various goals, as opposed to sacrificing one for another
- Develop Corporate Plasticity
- Recognize changing parameters and be flexible in cooperating to stick to your purpose
- Actively lead operationalization
- Use leadership to empower individuals and inspire your group to stay focused on your purpose Moran, Abramson, and Moran (2014) wrote that “to empower means that leaders give individual members more freedom to act, thereby allowing them to demonstrate their capabilities.” (p. 320)
The authors use SpaceX as an example of a current company who exemplifies these traits. They praise Elon Musk’s leadership in defining a clear goal: to make space travel easier by being able to reuse rockets, similar to how airplanes work. “Everyone at SpaceX knows their company exists to make space radically more accessible.” (Chevreux, et al. 2017)
Especially in an increasingly global society, following these patterns for successful synergistic teamwork is imperative. Navigating cultural differences at large global companies and becoming educating leaders who can inspire and empower individuals to chase after a singular purpose, will continue to be an important area for success in the future.
Resources:
Chevreux, L. , Lopez, J. and Mesnard, X. (2017). The Best Companies Know How to Balance Strategy and Purpose. Harvard Business Review: November 2, 2017. Retrieved from: https://hbr.org/2017/11/the-best-companies-know-how-to-balance-strategy-and-purpose
Cultural Synergy. (n.d.) Leadership in a Global Context–OLEAD 410. Online course lesson, Penn State World Campus, The Pennsylvania State University. Retrieved February 15, 2018, from https://psu.instructure.com/courses/1916378/modules/items/23640546
Moran, Abramson, & Moran. (2014) On Managing Cultural Differences. Oxford: Routledge