Barefoot in the Boardroom

About the Author

Shara Hutchinson is a seasoned Change Management Practitioner and Talent Optimization Consultant with a profound understanding of leadership and organizational dynamics. Her expertise lies in helping leaders and organizations navigate the complexities of change, fostering environments where innovation and adaptability thrive. Shara's work is characterized by a deep commitment to developing leadership capabilities and optimizing team performance, ensuring that organizations are not only prepared for change but are also proactive in seeking it. Her approach integrates practical strategies with a strong emphasis on personal and professional growth, making her a sought-after advisor and speaker in the field of change management. In her book "Barefoot in the Boardroom: Every Leader’s Guide to Navigating Change," Shara distills her years of experience into actionable insights, offering leaders a comprehensive toolkit for achieving sustainable success.

Main Idea

"Barefoot in the Boardroom" is an inspirational and practical guide for leaders aiming to navigate the complexities of change within their organizations. Shara Hutchinson presents a framework that blends self-assessment, team development, and strategic implementation. The book introduces two key concepts: the "Exposeyour™ Leadership Capacity" model and the "Barefoot Method™." These frameworks provide structured approaches for leaders to evaluate their current capabilities, identify areas for growth, and execute strategic initiatives effectively. Hutchinson argues that successful leadership in times of change requires not only a proactive and innovative mindset but also a deep understanding of one's team and organizational culture. The book emphasizes the importance of embracing change as a continuous journey rather than a one-time event, urging leaders to foster a culture of adaptability and resilience.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Phase 1 – You’re Already In The Boardroom
3. Phase 2 – Take Your Shoes Off
4. Phase 3 – Stand On The Table
5. Conclusion

Introduction

In the introduction, Hutchinson sets the stage by highlighting the inevitability and necessity of change in the business world. She emphasizes that successful leaders are those who not only anticipate change but actively seek it out as a catalyst for growth. Hutchinson challenges the reader to adopt a forward-thinking mindset, focusing on long-term goals rather than short-term gains. This perspective is crucial for building a resilient organization capable of navigating the uncertainties of the market. Hutchinson asserts that the true measure of leadership lies in one's ability to guide an organization through transformation, leveraging change as an opportunity rather than a threat.

"No leader with an audacious vision builds a company with the intent of only surviving for a few years. The objective is to keep growing and reach the heights of success over time and have a future." - Shara Hutchinson

This quote encapsulates the essence of Hutchinson's philosophy, encouraging leaders to think beyond immediate challenges and focus on sustainable success. By setting a clear vision and being adaptable, leaders can steer their organizations towards lasting impact and growth.