POS in Action: Step one when facing an “insurmountable” challenge: identify the positives

November 25, 2013


Identify the problem, then formulate a solution. Reasonable strategy? What about looking first at what is right in the situation, and how to build on it? This is what Jim Mallozzi did in 2009, when he was appointed CEO to Prudential Real Estate and Relocation, which was deep in the red at time. He applied what he had learned from research in the field of Positive Organizational Scholarship, and not only implemented strengths-based strategies, but worked to answer the question, “How do we achieve something that is truly great and never before seen in our industry?”

Here are some of Mallozzi’s strategies:

  • Have each of your team members share three things they value about each of the other team members.
  • Have your team members share with each other at least one challenge they are facing, to see if a solution exists within the team.
  • Create an area (e.g., shared online resource) where team members can share best practices, ideas, good news.

Consider a problem you or your organization faces right now. Could you apply these ideas? Or what strategies can you come up with?

More information on Jim Mallozzi’s application of POS principles