Change in a Non-Change Industry | Saul Jaeger, LEAD Wayfarer

TL;DR

An experienced police officer discusses how the COVID-19 pandemic and the murder of George Floyd forced the police force to adapt and embrace change.

Transcript

[MUSIC] >> [APPLAUSE] >> So good morning, everybody. Normally I don't need a mic, so this is good to be here. Everything's fine, there's no emergency. >> [LAUGH] >> Your car's probably okay, I would think. And I know it's a little strange to have a cop talking in uniform at the Stanford Graduate School of Business, but for those that don't know me,... Read More

Key Insights

• 👮 The COVID-19 pandemic presented unforeseen challenges for the police force, including ensuring officer safety and responding to new situations like vaccine distribution.
• 🥺 The murder of George Floyd led to a shift in public sentiment, with communities demanding transparency and accountability from police departments.
• 🤔 Forward-thinking police departments actively engaged with communities, participating in protests, and creating platforms for dialogue and learning.
• 💱 Resistance to change is inherent in the police force, but reframing change as a growth opportunity can help overcome this resistance and drive positive transformation.

Questions & Answers

Q: How did the COVID-19 pandemic pose unique challenges to the police force?

The pandemic required the police force to consider vaccination site logistics, officer safety, and the potential arrest of individuals for not wearing masks.

Q: How did the murder of George Floyd impact police departments?

The murder of George Floyd led to increased anger, fear, and distrust in communities, which prompted police departments to actively participate in conversations, demonstrations, and engagement with community members.

Q: How did the speaker's police department embrace change during these times?

The speaker's police department actively participated in protests, listened to community members' grievances, and initiated a program called MVPDx where they invited individuals who were demanding action to engage in conversation and learn about pressing issues.

Q: How did the speaker address resistance to change within the police force?

The speaker shared a personal story about the initial resistance to implementing body cameras and emphasized the importance of reframing change as a growth opportunity for both individuals and the organization as a whole.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The speaker reflects on the challenges faced by the police force during the COVID-19 pandemic, including vaccine distribution and ensuring officer and staff safety.

• The murder of George Floyd sparked anger and mistrust in communities, prompting police departments to engage in conversations, demonstrations, and take action.

• The speaker shares a personal story about the initial resistance to implementing body cameras and how attitudes towards change can be reframed.