10.13.2014 Interview with Karl Schoemer
Why is it important that companies and organizations adapt and accept that change is necessary?
Today’s workplace is different. The workforce is different. The work itself is different. The pace is faster than it has ever been and getting faster by the hour. Consumers have more choices than any time in history. Competition can and does come from every corner and every direction. This means the only thing that is constant is change. How well a company, and the individuals in it, deal with, adapt to, and seize change will determine their success or failure.
In fact, I believe the only competitive advantage – for any company – in the next 10-15 years will be how Change Adaptive they are!
What makes your keynotes unique?
Energy, enthusiasm, passion and content expertise. I have had the opportunity over the last 20 years to travel the world and talk with audiences on 5 continents. I am more convinced today than ever before that people are individually accountable to make themselves Change Adaptive. As a result, I believe that I owe it to every single participant in my audiences to put all the energy I have into making the message impactful and entertaining. I refer to what I do as edu-tainment. Audiences leave educated and entertained.
What message do you hope audiences walk away with?
Well, I start every New Reality workshop and my book for that matter with three guarantees about change: They are: “Change is Here to Stay”, “It Won’t Be Trouble Free”, and “You are Accountable”. So if there were only three things people could take away, I’d hope it would be those three.
Do you have a favorite experience from your speaking career?
I have too many favorite experiences to count. The common denominator for all of them is the people. I have learned over the last 20 years that change, the dynamics of change, and the ability to take charge of your future by increasing your change adaptability is universal. The New Reality messages resonate worldwide and have inspired thousands of people to embrace change and drastically increase their value and employability. That’s why I do what I do.
How do you connect with audiences and inspire them to embrace change?
I tell them the truth. Too many discussions today about performance and change tip toe around the edges. They soft pedal and sugar coat difficult messages about changing expectations. I am honest, frank and direct. People appreciate that. I connect with the audience with honesty and they return the favor by engaging their intellect, creativity and innovation and in many cases embracing change.