Recognizing the Need for Change

The first step in any change process is recognizing that there is a need to change.  This can often be a difficult initial step to overcome because many organizations and people hold the belief, "why change - I like the way things are!"  We all need to recognize that change is inevitable; there is always a need to seek out innovative ways to improve.

Experience tells us that too often organizations rush into change without really considering the need.  In their eagerness to pursue a change initiative, they can chase the wrong end state and ultimately waste valuable resources.  Often this goal of saving resources was the focus of the project in the first place.  This is most likely the result of poor change leadership skills. To be resilient, all of us need to develop excellent change leadership skills.

 

Communicating During A Period Of Change 

• Ensure that everyone is aware of the change initiative
• Offer reassurance that change is necessary and explain why
• Focus attention on the activities of those involved in delivering the change
• Offer reassurance that the change is being properly managed
• Provide timely information on the progress of the change initiative
• Ensure that all communications are accurate and that they reflect both the successes and failures of the change process
• Discuss the different options available
• Discuss and reinforce the desired patterns of behavior that are taking place as a result of the change initiative
• Be sure that those outside the business are also reassured
• Ensure that there are quick resolutions to any challenges encountered

Until next time...






Sheryl Tuchman, SPHR, SHRM-SCP
http://tools2succeed.com/