Why is change a constant in the business world and how can leaders champion it?
Change is a constant and inevitable fact of life in the business world, driven by factors such as increased competition, flat earnings, and poor morale. While some changes, like technology upgrades, are easy to implement, others are more challenging. Leaders must champion change in all its various forms.
I have some pointers, but first a little perspective.
If you’re like me, you may well recall “those” staff meetings when higher-ups giddily announced new plans to address whatever scourge happened to thwart the current status quo. No matter what the reason or amount of positive the spin that was applied, everyone knew that changes were afoot. Invariably, the news was met with a measure of eye rolling, suspicion and wariness. It’s this inherent aversion to change that can make implementing initiatives difficult.
If you Google the subject, you’ll find various methods of leading change, including those of the esteemed Dr. John Paul Kotter, who outlines eight steps. As much as I fully endorse Dr. Kotter’s methodology, I can distill leading change into the following five pointers:
1. Believe the words of Greek philosopher Heraclitus: “Change is the only constant.”
Change is inevitable, so embrace it. If you think the iPhone is the biggest thing since tater tots, just you wait.
2. When you’ve made a decision to change tack, announce it to the crew immediately.
If your decision is to change course, subordinates will be far more amenable if you do it quickly and explain why.
3. Maintain a sense of urgency.
You’ve instigated changes for a reason. Include deadlines and incentives.
4. Be realistic, patient and empathetic.
If your vision isn’t happening when you envisioned it, or if people aren’t embracing it right away, take a chill pill and have faith. Just because people don’t immediately catch your drift doesn’t mean they aren’t on board. If you’re realistic, patient and empathetic you’ll find leading change eminently easier.
5. Embody the change you are trying to instill.
I won’t dwell on this one, but let’s just say if you’re trying to encourage the use of public transportation, don’t show up for work in your Humvee.
If you’d like more insight on Leading Change, please feel free to fax me any time.
Thanks for reading,
Greg
