8 Ways to Smoothly Ease in an Era of Change
Posted by Jim Berigan on 18 Apr 2008 in: Best Practices, Leadership
Whenever a leader of an organization is poised to make some dramatic changes to the operational structure of the institution, it is likely that there will be a level of resistance from the people within the community. It is often difficult, in such situations, to get everyone to buy into a new system without a substantial amount of education, persuasion, trust, and time.
If the leader imposes change without this “buy in” from his people, it is likely that his efforts will fail, or at the very least, come at the high price of alienation and division.
In my experience, one way to help bring people into a “change” mode is to first make boldly positive alterations to the physical environment of the organization. The actions need to be noticeable and significant in appearance only. No policy changes should be attached to the physical modifications. These are strictly having to do with inanimate objects.
The goal of this demonstration is to show people that change can be attractive and beneficial. It helps them make the connection when the leader starts implementing new policy. If they see some dramatic new landscaping or completely re-decorated office, they will eventually realize that the leader has a vision, that and the world won’t come to an end.
If the people see enough examples of this “safe” kind of change, they will start to build trust in the leader, which will allow him to slowly bring about the institutional adjustments that are needed, without resentment or mis-trust.
Below, I have offered a few examples of physical transformations I have either made myself or have witnessed just before an organization undergoes significant changes. continue reading
OK. So you’ve now run three auctions, two golf outings, seven raffles, four school carnivals, over ten spaghetti dinners, and sold 2,000 pounds of cookie dough. Now, however, your youngest child is graduating from high school in May, and you’re finally done. It is time for you to rest, to pursue your own interests, to follow your children into their new adventures.
