Is Your Team Prepared for Change?

Humans have an intrinsic fear of the unknown. So it should come as no surprise that some of your employees will be reluctant to embrace major changes within your company. As an employer, it’s important you get your team on board and help them successfully handle that change. Here are some tips and techniques to accomplish this.

Make an Announcement ASAP

The more time your team has to prepare, the better. This is why you’ll want to make a formal announcement as soon as possible. Doing so will enable your employees to digest the information, mentally prepare and figure out what they need to do to manage it.

Let’s say you will be implementing a new type of CRM software to better serve your customers. Rather than waiting a few days or even a week before making the announcement, try to do it a month ahead of time.

Explain the Logic Behind the Change

In most cases, things go smoother when team members understand the rationale behind a particular decision. When they recognize the benefits and how a change will positively impact the company and their lives, it’s much easier to get your team on board. In the case of CRM software, you might explain it will make it easier for your employees to manage customer accounts, locate information and streamline the overall sales process.

Maintain Communication Throughout the Process

Normal day-to-day communication is important in its own right. But macro-level change demands you take it one step further and expand your communication channel even further. For instance, you might want to increase transparency by holding formal meetings with increased frequency throughout the period of change.

You may also want to meet with employees one-on-one to explain the specifics and address any concerns they may have. It’s also recommended to explore new communication channels such as company-wide email blasts to keep everyone in the loop.  

Set a Positive Tone

As head of the company, you set the tone for everyone else. If you’re positive and enthusiastic, this should trickle down and spread to the rest of your team. However, if you come across as being stressed and overwhelmed with the change, it can create a tense atmosphere. The bottom line here is your team will follow your lead, and you can stamp out much of the unrest by remaining optimistic.

Change isn’t always easy, and it’s quite possible it will be met with resistance by your team. By following these techniques, you can effectively prepare everyone for change and bring them on board to ensure a smooth transition for everyone involved.

Make sure your business is equipped with the talent it needs to succeed. Contact Encadria Staffing Solutions today!

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