Don’t get me wrong, change can certainly be a good thing. Sometimes, it’s truly needed.
However, change isn’t always easy for people to digest. They tend to have an immediate and sometimes physical reaction to any announcement of change.
The best companies will always adjust...and so change will be part of the equation.
Leaders should be more aware of the impact that change has on their teams, and they should be ready to support people through the process. Because the basic human need of feeling secure and valued is innate in all of us, leaders should be prepared to help nurture these emotions as change is occurring.
Be proactive as a leader to help ensure a smooth transition for your employees.
Here are 5 of the most important points to consider when you need to drive your team through changes:
Communicate the change effectively
This is critical to the success of any change. A clear expectation must be set with as many details as can be provided (and then followed-through on!) Leaders should be transparent...but that doesn’t mean they should disclose every single detail. It means they should be authentic and honest, while they share as much as they can at the right times.
Involve your team in change
“Change is a threat when done to me, but an opportunity when done by me.”
~ Rosabeth Moss Kanter
People want to play a part on what’s happening to their future. Engage their expertise to guide the change and they will reward you by being more energized by it.
Side note: Not involving your team in a new strategy can make you a part of the statistic that 90% of companies fail to execute their strategy
Remain consistent in your core values
While processes, procedures and services may be changing, your people need to see the stability of your core values. This will help them to remain confident in what’s happening, even if all the questions can’t be answered.
Share the vision and hope for the change
This is what I often refer to as the “power of why.” Most people are fairly purpose-driven. They want affect change and have an impact, so it’s important to share the value and benefit of the change, as well as to help each person understand their role in that bigger picture.
Be an obstacle-remover
In times of change, more than ever, a leader must provide the right tools for success and remove obstacles that are impeding progress. Leaders should encourage open communication and innovation. They should also allow for graceful failures. This is where great leadership will come through, as the true “rallying” of the team is what facilitate a smooth transition through change.
Many organizations invest a lot of money in creating a strategy, but they don't provide their teams with the necessary tools to execute. Don't become a casualty of this mistake!
What’s been your leadership experience in the midst of change?
Are you a great leader who has some additional ideas to share?
Or have you been led by someone who inspired everyone through a difficult transition?
Please share your expertise and experience with my readers. Thank you!
