Tip# 405: 5 Tips for Dealing with Workplace Change

In our global economy, change is the only constant. In fact, there is a good chance change will impact your workplace at some point over the next 6 to 9 months. Whether it is a new computer system, boss, co-worker or process, change is difficult for many people -- even if the change directly benefits an employee.

As employees feel competitive pressures throughout an organization, every business is faced with doing more with less; therefore, companies, and their employees must also focus on product and service innovation(s) and streamlining processes and procedures.

How Will You And Your Team React To Change?

How you and your team reacts to change quite often depends on the way it was communicated to them. And if it is not communicated properly, change is often resisted. If this happens, any initial or short term gains will be lost. 

5 Tips For Implementing A Smooth Change At Your Organization.

As a leader, your challenge is to find a way to implement change without creating a stressful situation. Although you cannot entirely predict the impact of change on your staff, there are a few things you can do to help prepare yourself and your employees for change. 

To help you manage change at your organization, we have listed below five tips for you to consider:

Tip #1: Plan Properly. When possible, it is always a good idea to plan ahead for change. People usually like to know how a particular change is going to affect their jobs, and it is helpful for them to have some time to adjust to the idea of the change before it actually occurs.

Tip #2: Improve Your Interpersonal Skills. It is important to communicate effectively (and in person whenever possible) with everyone, especially when introducing major changes. It is proven that the more information people have, the easier it will be for them to adapt to changes.

Tip #3: Make Yourself Available. If you are like me, you are running in a dozen or so directions each day. Despite your busy schedule, it is important that you make yourself available to everyone. Take note of all questions and address them as soon as possible.

Tip #4: Exemplify and Implement Proactive Behaviors. It is a good idea to check on everyone's progress when implementing a successful change. Take a look at the flow of the transition to see if things are moving smoothly. You are more likely to hear relevant information if you are practicing active listening skills and seeking feedback on change.

Tip #5: Listen Attentively. Do not forget to listen to your employees. Statistics have proven that many employees can offer great ideas to save both time and money. You can do everything right, but if you do not listen to your people, you will not get long-term buy-in from them.

Executive Summary: Change is inevitable in the workplace, and individuals react to change differently. To ease the transition, you can implement a few strategies that can help your employees better accept change.

Employees are more likely to accept and embrace the change when you provide proper planning, structure and communication. During the implementation process, make sure that you are accessible to your employees and evaluate the progress of the change. Also, it is important to listen to your employees' questions, concerns and suggestions, for they will likely have ideas that can improve the transition.

For more information, visit our website!