Keeping pace with change in SMEs: creating and maintaining congruence and consistency in SMEs in transition economies

Global business is changing at pace in both form and complexity, demanding innovative solutions. Change is no longer an option; it is crucial to the ongoing success of global businesses. Leadership that encourage innovation and entrepreneurial orientation involves the creation and maintenance of congruence and consistency in workplace practices. Today's global leaders are the embodiment of change, but too often, they are sent to manage cultures they know little about. In attempting to forge a work culture that supports high productivity, they may be inclined to fall back on tried and tested approaches from their country of origin, which often prove to be inappropriate in the adoptive country. Curiosity, as a motivator of exploratory behaviour, serves to overcome the lack of knowledge. The management of diversity in the workplace is essential as global organisations expand into transition economies. Managers need to be skilful in modifying workplace practices and procedures to create shared perceptions that support innovation and entrepreneurship. This paper argues for congruency, as well as consistency, across ten key areas of leadership practices to meet the ongoing challenges associated with transporting entrepreneurship into transition economies.