How do you handle change with faced with it in your organization? People handle change very differently and some are more successful than others. I have three strategies to help you navigate the uncharted waters when you, your team, your organization is going through change. I was first introduced to these strategies years ago when I worked in a finance company that was acquired by a bank. I was part of the transition team to mitigate the disruptive chatter that happens when you bring two organizations together. We successfully went from an “us” vs. “them” organization to a collaborative new team. These strategies worked then, and they will work now.
1. Mindset. When faced with change, people default to either a victim, vacationer, or volunteer. A victim immediately thinks that their job, position, or authority is threatened and that there is nothing they can do about it. They are more likely to panic with fear. The second option is to become a vacationer. This person steps back and waits for all the dust to settle. They disengage while watching other people do the heavy lifting. Sometimes these people never really re-engage fully, never really believing the change would be a success. Finally, the third mindset is one of a volunteer. These people are resourceful, ask great questions, and are much more collaborative with everyone going through the change as opposed to being in a silo thinking independently.
2. Language. If you say that the change will never work, it won’t. If you talk about the way you’ve always done things, you won’t be open to new ways of doing things. Self-Fulfilling prophecy is real so don’t sabotage you or your team with defeatist language.
3. Positive intent. Many people equate change with loss. If you’ve been through my workshop on this, you witnessed first-hand how groups of people act with a victim mindset when I put them through an experiential exercise around change. It’s fascinating! Change doesn’t have to equate loss or negativity. Change can mean an incredible opportunity for growth. Just look at all the companies who had to pivot during the global pandemic. They were forced to do business different than they’ve ever done before and now, they have adopted some of those changes!
The next time you are faced with change, think of these three strategies. And, if you want to experience this incredible workshop for your team, give me a call
Have a great Front-Row Friday!
Your Head Usher,
Marilyn
