Leading people through change at work but facing resistance?
Try these principles from How to Win Friends and Influence People to help steer through to a successful outcome!
• Don’t criticise, condemn or complain – most resistance comes from fear which is increased if people feel attacked. Even if you are unhappy with their reaction to a new initiative try not to criticise directly. Instead why not…
• Give honest, sincere appreciation – when was the last time you gave a team member recognition or praise for a quality or trait they possess? Sometimes people need reminding that they have all the skills and abilities needed to successfully implement a new initiative.
• Arouse in the other person an eager want – what is your end goal in implementing the change? Also what is in it for the team members who are tasked with the hard work? Communicating (or in some cases re-communicating) the benefits of a positive outcome can help people become motivated to act.
• Be genuinely interested in other people – as leaders we don’t always appreciate the impact change has on others. We might want to ask a few questions to find out why people have the concerns they do.
• Smile – it may be through gritted teeth at times but remember people look to us for guidance during difficult times!
• Make the other person feel important – and do it sincerely – we can also ensure we recognise success even if the change doesn’t turn out as planned…
It is also important to look after ourselves in changing times as feeling stressed can reduce our effectiveness as leaders. These principles form How to Stop Worrying and Start Living may help:
• Live in day-tight compartments – taking on too much at one time can lead us to be less effective rather than more. Focus on one thing at a time.
• Don’t fuss about trifles – not everything always goes smoothly. Sometimes we need to move on.
• Put enthusiasm into your work – it can be infectious.
• Do the very best you can – not every change implementation is successful. If it doesn’t work – move on!
For more information download The New Change Management: Leading Change in a VUCA World