Effectively leading change is rarely easy. If results you want aren’t at the desired level it is time to contemplate a change. In our Results-Centred Leadership program, we advocate the role of the leader in the change process includes the following steps:
Ensure Clear Direction
People need to understand what needs to change, what doesn’t need to change, and their own role in the process. So, we as leaders are responsible to ensure there is clarity in the reasons and their role.
Provide Support
The most important types of support include coaching and active listening. When leading change, the leader often has the greatest pressure upon them. It’s important to pause, reflect, and demonstrate leadership attributes that support the team.
Ensure Frequent Communication
One of the biggest issues in any organization is communication. When leading change, ask open-ended, non-directive questions and, again, really listen.
Deal Promptly and Openly with Concerns
With so much on everyone’s mind during a time of change, it’s easy to overlook concerns, or procrastinate when dealing with them. A small issue for you might be a big concern to someone else.
Mutually Evaluate Results
Measurement is important, and so is evaluation. Analyze why results are what they are. Then, take corrective action quickly when required.
Celebrate Successes
Celebration is important at several levels:
- During the change.
- Acknowledging small wins.
- Recognizing accomplishments.
Awareness
Awareness is important in any change process. Leaders should be aware, not only of what’s going on in the marketplace, but also what is going on within the organization. Seek their opinions, involve them in decisions. Help make everyone feel they are a full member of the team. As a leader, be fully aware of the environment that has been created.
Follow Through
Great strategies fail most often because they were actioned without effective follow-up. Ensure the strategy is on track and be prepared to catch it the minute it veers off-track.
The right time for effectively leading change will be evident to leaders who are consistently aware of what’s happening, particularly within the organization. A timely change can make a huge difference to results.
You can follow TAC on any of these platforms:
Click here to have TAC Focus articles sent to your inbox.