Majority of hotel management companies and all chains are matrix organizations. They have hotel teams, regional teams and corporate organizations. Special matrix teams for different situations. Like major construction, acquisitions, new divisions, reorganizations, etc.
Majority of matrix management and executive employees? Report to more than one person.
3 Steps Dynamic leaders do before meetings
They look at who they are meeting with.
The specific project.
Each person’s role on this project.
That guides what and how leaders communicate during the meeting.
Leaders say above 3 steps typically take less than minute.
That got me thinking. Am I always thinking from matrix organization point of view? Or just my point of view? Equally concerning question: Are we teaching younger managers how to be effective matrix leaders? How to recognize different roles they are expected to play. How to play those roles.
If companies have group of hotels they are matrix. Accounting, Operations, Catering, and Sales and Marketing are obvious
Matrix have dotted line relationships. But the thickness of the line depends on project. The role of each in the matrix. Important for members of matrix to know and understand their position and role…in each matrix project. As well as knowing and respecting other roles.
3 Reasons companies adopt matrix style
Matrix organizations can move faster.
Have lot more flexibility…than traditional top down organizations.
Leaders and teams accomplish more.
Best leaders? Master Matrix leadership.
4 Differences Matrix leaders adopt
Dealing in matrix influences how they negotiate.
Optimize skill sets.
Collaborate with each other.
Leaders guide decisions. Versus make them.
The sum of the team matrix is greater than the whole. They optimize people and teams
Before meeting: they identify role of each person. What are their roles in matrix for this project. What does the leaders role need to be with each? Within group who plays the lead role in which part of project/meeting?
When it comes to Accounting does each person understand the Accountant in the room has more say. Moving to Sales is there recognition that Sales Rep holds more sway. Operations, the leader has more.
Dynamic leaders make sure each understands their role and place in the matrix. That they understand the leadership expected from their area. In this way leader increases leadership skills in teams.
4 Ways leaders alter their leadership
Leaders in matrix situations make sure the right data and information is collected. Right data, not most data.
The data that actually guides decisions. This is where leaders are at their best.
Leaders shape information. Identifying who needs to see the information. Who needs to understand it thoroughly.
Leaders decide who needs to take the lead in sharing the data.
These leaders build trust. In the team. The process. Individual roles. The outcome.
CTA: Where in your job are you involved in matrix. What is your role? What is expected? How do you lead that section effectively? Who else do you need to involve?
Tom Ferree is the founder of Ferree & Associates and SecureEmploy, organizations focused on helping companies find exceptional talent and helping professionals advance their careers. Since founding Ferree & Associates in 1977, Tom has worked extensively with hospitality companies, executives, and rising leaders across the industry. Through SecureEmploy, he shares practical career strategies, leadership insights, and real-world advice to help professionals grow their careers and help organizations build stronger teams.
