Managing change…
Change is inevitable in the business world, clients change orders, suppliers let you down or you change a process to be more efficient. Teams are reluctant to embrace change as whatever is occurring a loss is involved somewhere. It can be minor to major, however the emotional reaction can be managed with a clear formula.
John Kotter’s book “Our iceberg is melting” tells the tale of a colony of penguins and their need to move as their iceberg is melting.
The change you may be involved in, might not be as dramatic, however follow Kotter’s steps to smooth the way for your team:-
- Create a sense of urgency – help others to see the need for the change
- Pull together a leading/guiding team to provide guidance for others
- Decide what to do – create a vision or strategy so everyone understands
- Make it happen – communicate for understanding and buy in
- Empower others to act
- Acknowledge short term wins – celebrate the small stuff
- Make it stick – ensure this is a cultural change so you are ready for the next change
In the book the penguins realise icebergs will always melt and that is true of the world of commerce, prices go up and down and we always need to adjust our business. Creating a culture of change is more sustainable than just managing reactively. Your team will feel more secure and more adept towards change if they have a plan and a process as Kotter’s book demonstrates.
Please do contact bev@nuggetsoflearning.co.uk for a 90 minute workshop on Change.
