Implementing Change in the Workplace
Successfully implementing change in the workplace is going to be a key competitive advantage for organizations as we move forward into a more globalized and rapidly changing world.
Change is a curious thing; everyone agrees it is inevitable, and yet so many people fight it, complain about it, or just try to ignore it. The job of a leader is to understand this reality and develop strategies to w
ork around people’s inherent resistance to change in the workplace.
This is easier said than done. Resistance to change is so strong that people will often fight against the mere thought of it – getting negative and disagreeing even before they know what the change is!
Here are 5 simple but powerful strategies you can use to more effectively implement change in the workplace:
Strategies for Implementing Change in the Workplace
Involve – The best way to introduce change in the workplace is to start before the decision to change has been made. It is much harder to resist change when you feel involved in the decision to change. Involve your people in discussions, surveys, feedback sessions, etc.
Understand – People hate change, even when the change is going to ultimately be good for them. Rather than logically arguing about with them about the benefits of implementing change, or dictating to them that, “this is the way it is so deal with it!”, start by acknowledging and understanding their concerns. It’s amazing how much a person will support you if they feel you truly listened to and understood them.
Communicate – Knowledge is a great way to fight the fear of uncertainty. Keep your people in the loop about what is going on. You know they will be talking about rumors and what “may happen,” so why not make sure they are talking the truth and not just making up dire scenarios?
Prepare for Failure – Doing anything new is hard. One of the key reasons employees have resistance to change in the workplace is the worry of , “I know what I am doing now; will I be as capable after things change, and what will happen if I mess up?” Reduce this fear by giving your people some leeway (and making sure they are aware they have it).
Say, “Yes, And” – “Yes, and” is the opposite of “yes, but.” When you are implementing change in the workplace, you will hear a lot of “yes, buts.” You will be tempted to respond with a “yes, but.” Control this response and instead use, “yes, and,” which is more positive, understanding, and forward thinking. (for more information on implementing change in the workplace and “yes, and,” checkout my book, “Say, ‘Yes, And!’”)
Change is not easy, but it is inevitable. Use the five strategies above to smooth the road as you implement change in your workplace!
How Improv, Ding Happens, and Avish can Help
Avish has a process that uses improv comedy tools, ideas, and principles to help people accept, manage, and take advantage of change. His interactive programs are fun, engaging, and highly relevant.
Avish can help you increase the adaptability in your workplace in several ways:
Speaking at Your Annual Meetings
Presenting ideas around improv and change to a large group of people in a short period of time (45-90 minutes). Avish’s presentations are fun, engaging, interactive, motivational, and designed to open-minds and get people started down the path of adaptability and innovation.
Training at your Workplace
Working hands-on with a smaller group of people for a longer time where the focus is on skills-transfer. Giving your team the skills and practice to implement these ideas in the real word.
Facilitation at Your Next Leadership Retreat
Taking your leadership team through a process that helps them create a plan of their own to increase creativity and innovation throughout the entire organization.
Get Started!
Contact us now to book Avish to help your team respond to, embrace, and take advantage of change in the workplace!
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