How do you get management support? Upper-Management Support

[Casey Cochran]

Hello All,

My job is to lead the audit teams for TS16949, ISO 14001, OHSAS 18001, but I have a hard time getting management to get involved in what we do. Ensuring problems get fixed and stay fixed, enforcing responsible people to correct their problems. I was wondering on your thoughts of how to change the mindset from being a nuisance to helping the way we do business.

[Craig H.]

Show me the money.

Make the problems/potential problems talk to the head honchos using their language - dollars, pesos, seashells, whatever. Time wasted, material wasted, etc. all have a cost.

[Rob Nix]

Also, you might want to read this article (as rough drafted as it is):

http://elsmar.com/Forums/attachment....achmentid=4177

[harry]

Hi Casey

This is one of those easier said than done subject. However, having contacts 'up there' (if any) would make the road ahead much smoother.

The first step is to be able to look at the 'big picture' (your whole organisation and the environment that you operate in) from the big boys angle or point of view.(Ever wonder why people drink and golf with them?)

Next is to be able to identify how your section or department can blend in with it - especially how you can support or enhance their goals and objectives. (you help to make them look good).

Finally, if you can have a chance to present your ideas (or engineer your way in) - walla! you could be part of them.

Sounds like company politics but that is usually the most effective way. In B- school they tell you that you must also manage you bosses.

Instead of 'act local and think global' you may want to 'act departmental and think corporate'.

Can only wish you the best - for the road ahead is tough but the rewards can be substantial.

(Rob's attachment which I did not see earlier is a very comprehensive guide)

[Casey Cochran]

Interesting story. Reminds me of another type of relationship I have read about.

See attached.

[Casey Cochran]

Sorry Rob, I tried to attach a file but could not. How do I attach a file. I went to manage attachments, upload from my computer... Hold on, it is in my attachment key, how do I attach it from there?

[Casey Cochran]

Figured it out I think.

[Helmut Jilling]

Originally Posted by Casey Cochran

Hello All,

My job is to lead the audit teams for TS16949, ISO 14001, OHSAS 18001, but I have a hard time getting management to get involved in what we do. Ensuring problems get fixed and stay fixed, enforcing responsible people to correct their problems. I was wondering on your thoughts of how to change the mindset from being a nuisance to helping the way we do business.

I agree with Craig H. But, I'll add three. I find there are four things that work:

1. Show them the money.
2. Show them how it will please a customer (which leads to Show me the money...).
3. Show them how it is required by regulations.
4. Find someone in top management who actually gets the big picture, and wants to do the right thing, because it's the right thing. (harder to find, but worth his/her weight in gold).