At some point, every team must face and adapt to change. Change can be big or small. Change can be caused by internal or external
circumstances. Change can be welcomed or
resisted. Regardless, as leader, it is
up to you to wisely mitigate the upset that change can provoke and effectively guide
team members as they adjust to, and ultimately accept the newly desired state.
Change management consulting experts offer these tips for
successful change:
·
Anticipate. Changes rarely go as planned. Carefully
think through how the upcoming change will affect the team as a whole as well
as how it will affect each individual team member. The better you understand
the impact of change, the more able you will be to anticipate reactions and
lessen resistance.
·
Be Honest. No change is easy or perfect. Meet
with the entire team to talk about both the positive and negative implications
of the change.
·
Share. Poor communication kills change. Explain
the rationale for the change and why you think it is for the better for you,
the business, and for your team. Paint a clear and compelling picture of what
the change will look like when successfully implemented for each and every
person.
·
Discuss. Without feedback it is difficult to learn
and adjust. Encourage questions and answer them
honestly. The more approachable you are, the more confidence the team will have
in the new direction.
·
Prepare. Change is not for the weak. Be ready for resistance and guide your team
patiently through the process. Expect that some will be more willing than
others to make the changes in behavior.
Learn more at: http://www.lsaglobal.com/change-management/
