Is it just me or have you also noticed, how everything today feels like change management? The rate of change in companies has grown exponentially (50% more changes annually today than in 2013). Then add a pandemic, and the way we work today feels more like chaos, than consistency.
I say we shift the change paradigm and stop making “change plans.” The reality is, when companies point to something that didn’t go well at the end of a project or a shift, the #1 thing they point to is often not having the right change plans in place. You need more than a plan these days to be effective.
It is time we finally recognize that having a change mindset is not an occasional ‘nice to have’ when work calls for it, but rather a must-have. And not just at the Leader level of the company, but in every role. Change doesn’t just happen to us anymore, navigating change is core to how we get work done.
Change Self Check
I want to give you a few ideas on what to do next. First, you’re going to pause and reflect.
Change Mindset Tips
Be your own change advocate. This means, know how to apply your personal mindset to the changes around you. Over the years, you’ve heard about the Change Curve. The curve represents adoption related to change. You could be a Change Champion, Change Neutral, or Change Resistant. One thing I recommend, is don’t wait for your Leader to help you navigate the curve. Here I how to apply some mindset tips to help you move through the curve on your own.
If you’re a Change Champion:
Ask your Leader for a role to help drive change. This will put your change energy to good use! Leaders and companies are often seeking champions, but may not know you are one. Raise your hand and offer your services.
If you’re Change Neutral (and most folks are):
Make a list of the questions you have related to the change. Usually, the only thing keeping you in the middle of the curve, is uncertainty. List your questions and ask your Leader to help you get them answered. One way to get “un-stuck” in the middle is to knock out your key questions. Don’t wait for someone to answer them in a communication eventually. Get your answers now, this will help you feel more confident during change.
If you’re a Change Resistor:
I know you are not feeling the change, and that’s ok! You probably have some very valid reasons why this change doesn’t work well for you. Something to recognize though, is that the change is still going to happen. Therefore, moving you to a better place, will help you have less stress as the change occurs. The top way to do this is to “ask for a job.” Ask your Leader if you can lead part of the change. Use this as an opportunity to influence the way it gets rolled out. Use your energy in a productive way. Stepping up and leaning in to lead may feel counter productive to what you want to do, however, it will help you shift your mindset and prepare for what’s coming…and even be an influencer, in a positive way. If you don’t channel your energy, it your resistance will show up in ways that are less than favorable.
Project Change Tool
Finally, if you really want to dig in, use the Project Change tool; this indicator tool will help evaluate how your change efforts are working and if you need to make any adjustments.
We can anticipate more change ahead – continued virtual work, agile workplaces, shifting cultures, shifting products… how we approach change personally, and as Leaders, is going to need a change too. You’ve heard the quote: “If you’re not changing, you’re choosing.” Well get ready, it’s time to change some things (no pun intended). You’re going to want to be out in front of the future of how change happens or the changes will pass you right by.
Great ideas. Like the personal checklist – helpful. Also love the Project Change tool as it contains some great recommendations for each section of change engagement, especially the resistors. Some very practical pieces here. Thanks for sharing. You are always bring great insights that help us with this very important topic.