How Are You Leading Your Team Through Times of Change?

There’s change happening all around us.
 
Constantly.
 
Whether it be:
 
*** Technological Advancements: Hello ChatGPT!
*** Remote and Distributed Workforce: Remote work and flexible work arrangements.
Diversity and Inclusion: The importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace is not slowing down.
*** Changing Employee Expectations: The expectations and needs of the modern workforce are ever-evolving. Employees are seeking meaningful work, work-life balance, career development opportunities, and a positive work environment.
*** Economic and Geopolitical Uncertainty: Global economic shifts & political changes
*** Changing Customer Expectations: The constantly evolving in response to new technologies, increased connectivity, and personalized experiences.
 
The one thing that is constant is change.
 
As leaders, what we do with that change is critical to the success of your team and your organization.
 
It’s imperative that leaders focus on:
 
1. Clear, Constant and Timely Communication: I consider this to be the most critical – and the one that’s often missed. What’s happening, why it’s happening, what’s the impact to the individual, the team, clients, and the organization are essential during times of change.
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2. Addressing Individual Concerns: It is crucial for leaders to actively listen to their team, understand their concerns, and provide support and reassurance to address individual worries during the change process.
 
3. Building a Shared Vision: Engage your team in the change process, seek their input, and collectively develop a vision that inspires and motivates everyone. Inclusion and participation foster a sense of ownership and commitment among team members.
 
4. Managing Resistance: Anticipate resistance, actively listen to concerns, address them empathetically, and involve resisters in the change process whenever possible.
 
5. Celebrating Milestones and Progress: Recognizing achievements, no matter how small, helps maintain motivation and morale during challenging times.
 
And when you think you’re done – go back to number 1.
 
There will never be too much communication.
 
One of the most brilliant pieces of advice a leader once provided me was to normalize change and constantly remind my team:
 
Change is coming, change is coming, I don’t know what the change is, but it’s coming.
 
How are you leading your team through times of change?