16 April, 2025 0 comment

How Can Leaders Drive Organizational Growth

The pressure to grow is real, but how can one navigate this growth mission in such an unpredictable world? According to a McKinsey study, 60% of CEOs state that their biggest challenge is achieving sustainable growth. This scenario has placed the concept of “grow or exit” at the core of companies’ strategic decisions.

Some actions are essential to ensure that companies not only survive but thrive, creating a robust and resilient organizational culture.

 

Growth of Organizations


1. Prioritize Growth: The Need to Take Calculated Risks

Continuous growth is only possible when new opportunities are pursued, even if they involve some risk. The most successful companies are those that are not afraid to take bold steps, as long as the risk is calculated. According to a study by the Harvard Business Review, 70% of CEOs believe that innovation and the willingness to take risks are fundamental to a company’s longevity. The concept of “fail fast and learn fast” has never been more relevant. However, taking risks does not mean acting impulsively. Leaders must create an environment where mistakes are seen as a learning opportunity rather than something to be feared. This type of mindset is crucial to encourage innovation and long-term growth.

 

Image: McKinsey & Company

Image: McKinsey & Company


2. Be the First to Move: The Competitive Advantage of Acting Quickly

In fast and unpredictable markets, being the first to move can be the difference between leading or falling behind. According to a study conducted by Bain & Company, companies that act quickly and decisively are 33% more likely to outperform the competition and achieve superior growth, for this to happen, an agile organizational structure is required, where decisions can be made quickly and implementation processes are fast and efficient. Take, for example, companies like Uber and Airbnb, which managed to transform entire sectors by moving quickly to explore opportunities before their competitors did.


3. Restructure with Artificial Intelligence: Technology as an Ally in Growth

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a powerful tool that can drive organizational growth in ways that were once unimaginable. From optimizing internal processes to improving customer experience, AI has the potential to transform the way companies operate and compete. According to a PwC study for the World Economic Forum, 63% of CEOs believe that artificial intelligence will be fundamental to the success of their businesses in the coming years. Strategically integrating AI into operations is essential; it does not mean merely investing in new technologies, but also equipping teams with the right skills and improving processes to make the most of artificial intelligence.

For organizations, the challenge is to ensure that they not only keep up with the pace of technological changes but also lead the digital transformation.

 

Image: statista

Image: statista


4. Keeping the Customer at the Center: Personalization as a Growth Strategy

In a saturated market, where options for consumers are virtually unlimited, companies must focus on creating personalized experiences for their customers, keeping the customer at the center of all strategic decisions is essential to ensure that an organization stands out from the competition. According to Epsilon, 80% of consumers are more likely to purchase from a brand that offers personalized experiences. Teams must understand the deep needs, desires, and behaviors of their customers. Companies like Netflix and Amazon have already successfully implemented personalization strategies with AI algorithms. The message is clear: personalization is no longer a competitive advantage, it is a necessity.


5. Not Forgetting the Basics: Setting Clear Goals and Ensuring a Solid Foundation

Although it is important to innovate and adapt, we must not forget the importance of the fundamentals. Sustainable growth is only possible when an organization has a solid foundation, built on a clear vision, well-defined values, and established strategic goals. According to Deloitte, 60% of CEOs state that having a clear strategic vision is crucial to ensuring the long-term growth of their organization. Ensuring that the company’s fundamentals, such as mission, vision, and values, are well-established and maintained over time is essential.


Conclusion

The leaders who manage to balance innovation with a solid foundation will have the best opportunities to grow, prosper, and achieve sustainable success, regardless of market challenges. This is a golden opportunity for those who are willing to act strategically, boldly, and innovatively, by prioritizing growth, acting quickly, adopting technology, keeping the customer at the center, and ensuring a solid foundation.

 

Article by Sérgio Almeida, in partnership with Vida Económica.