If ever you have changed your job or home, you must have experienced a myriad of emotions, struggles and a settling period. An organization and its people go through a similar phase when a change takes place.
At some point in time, changes are inevitable in the organization. The change could pertain to anything – it could be restructuring the processes, introducing a new technology or implementing a new project. However, change is all about uprooting the existing comfort. It is prone to face resistance from employees, clients and all other stakeholders. Hence, change management process becomes an integral activity.
Here are six principles that can make change management a smooth ride:
Get the Buy-in from Top Management
When the top management accepts the change, people in the subsequent levels of hierarchy will accept it too. The big bosses should generate excitement around the change. They should personally deliver a message via an email or in a gathering to convince how the organization and its stakeholders will benefit from the change.
Send Consistent and Regular Communication
A mere introductory communication talking about the change won’t do. It has to entail ho the change will take place, which all departments/branches will fall within the scope, who will lead the change and what would be new responsibilities. Every time there is an update about the change, the same should be sent across the organization.
Set up Change Management Team
Too many cooks spoil the broth! While the success of change depends on everyone’s support, there has to be a dedicated team to lead the change. Ideally, the team should comprise of people who are experienced in change implementation. Employees with change management courses on their resume make an ideal selection for the team.
Take Employee Resistance Seriously
Some employees will embrace the change positively, while others are bound to express their displeasure. It is the latter set of people that you need to tackle effectively. Call a meeting, try to understand their concerns and resolve them appropriately. By doing so, you will send a message that you genuinely care about their problems.
Implement Change in Phases
Ideally, the change should begin in a trial phase in one business function, department or branch of the organization. This will give a fair idea about its feasibility and problems encountered. Gradually, the change can be extended to the entire organization.
Monitor, Measure and Improvise
Do not wait until the end of the project to evaluate the project’s success or failure. Monitor it at regular intervals, measure the actual results against expected goals and improvise if there are any deviations.
If you are planning to make a career in this field, it is recommended to pursue change management certification online for better job prospects.
