Constructively questioning the way things are done; perpetually seeking to improve and grow

Employees can, and often do, fall into a mindset of ‘we have always done it this way’. As a result, they don't strive to find new ways of working that might lead to improvements. Challenging the Status Quo means relentlessly seeking what could be rather than what is. Courageously questioning, identifying and gaining support for a better way.

Reluctance to challenge the status quo may happen for several reasons. Many are linked to a fear of speaking up, a lack of motivation, a lack of belief that ideas will be listened to, a lack of knowledge about what is possible and feasible. It can also result from the best of intentions - to avoid conflict, to be collaborative, to go with the flow - for example. 

The following five behaviours support overcoming these obstacles and provide concrete ways to improve capability in challenging the status quo:

• Courage to Speak - I actively express my opinion, even if I know my perspective may not be widely accepted
• Evaluate and Question - I evaluate and question the ongoing value of current ways of working, seeking opportunities for improvement
• Enrolling Others - When faced with an issue with the current way of working, I engage others who are willing to partner to initiate changes
• Preparing my Pitch - I prepare my thoughts and pitch to be received accordingly when challenging current ways of working
• Drive and Persistence - I am steadfast in my pursuit of what I believe and have the resolve and conviction to see things through to completion