#Japan #Sendai #Imajina #Inner Branding #Middle Management

Connecting the Dots in Organization Development

On September 10, 2026, Imajina Co., Ltd., a company specializing in branding and organizational development, hosted a pivotal seminar titled "Inner Branding for Entrepreneurs" in Sendai. This event was targeted at executives, business successors, and human resources leaders and focused on the disconnect often experienced during periods of organizational transition, including business succession and scaling operations.

The Disconnect in Organizations

As companies grow, leaders frequently face the challenge of ensuring that their vision and values resonate throughout their organization. A significant issue often arises where middle management acts merely as conduits for passing instructions without embodying the company’s ethos. This disconnect arises because management may not fully grasp or resonate with the company's core principles and historical context.

According to Imajina, which has assisted over 3,000 organizations in transformative processes, fostering middle managers as "embodiers of the vision" and ensuring frontline employees feel valued is key to dissolving this disconnect. This proactive approach creates an organizational culture that actively counters stagnation.

Highlights of the Seminar

1. Avoiding the Pitfalls of Rules Over Principles

As organizations expand, they can fall into a trap where rules and superficial compliance take precedence over the foundational question of "why". This situation often leads to bureaucracy. Examples like Suntory's "Yatte Minahare" and the decline of IBM were highlighted to demonstrate the importance of continually reestablishing shared values among management.

2. Developing Emotional Intelligence (EQ) in Management

The seminar emphasized the necessity for managers to go beyond merely transferring skills and knowledge, which can stifle younger employees' initiative. Instead, managers should focus on fostering their subordinates’ emotional awareness and motivation—referred to as “contribution-focused EQ.” Recognizing and valuing what they receive from others can drive individuals to take more initiative.

3. Scientific Assessment of EQ Development

The event unveiled methods for quantifying and structuring approaches to management development and cultural assimilation through partnerships with institutions like Cambridge University and assessments such as the Harvard-style organizational resonance survey. Utilizing objective data helps middle managers understand their teams’ traits and behaviors, facilitating constructive dialogue at work.

Feedback from Attendees

The Sendai seminar attracted leaders from various sectors including manufacturing, infrastructure, and healthcare from the Tohoku region. Participants shared their enthusiastic responses through a survey conducted after the event:

• - “The discussion on how people thrive through being needed and the significance of contribution-focused EQ left a deep impression on me. I gained valuable insights on how to enhance the EQ of not just myself but also others.” (Precision Machinery Manufacturing, Executive)

• - “The phrase ‘lacking awareness of what is given’ really made me reflect on my own practices. I found practical learning about how to cultivate subordinates who can voice their ideas upwards.” (Agricultural Machinery Sales, Executive)

• - “I’ve struggled with how to convey the leadership’s sentiments on the ground. Returning to the human factor of EQ in management resonated with me greatly. I will emphasize the value of face-to-face interactions in our increasingly digital world.” (Healthcare Organization, Executive)

Looking Ahead

Imajina plans to continue hosting seminars across the country, with a focus not only on procedural revisions but also on changing the mindset of middle management and enhancing contribution-oriented EQ. This commitment aims to support sustainable growth and generational transitions in regional key enterprises.

About Imajina

Company Overview

• - CEO: Yoshiki Sekino
• - Location: 3-5-2 Kojimachi, Chiyoda, Tokyo, Japan
• - Business Areas: Corporate Branding, Inner Branding, Organizational Consulting
• - Website: Imajina