“You can’t build an adaptable organization without adaptable people–and individuals change only when they have to, or when they want to.” In this episode, I share my thoughts on approaching organizational change. This three-part cycle can be applied to any size team, it just takes deliberate leadership and teamwork to turn a bright idea into a reality that has long-term sustainability built in. Here we go!
Summary
How can one drive organizational change that will stick? Here is the three-phrase process I recommend using:
People
- Functions as the catalyst to change. Recognizes an issue and must apply critical thinking to what the root cause of the issue is at hand.
- Dependent on the ability to communicate their idea clearly to multiple audiences.
- Efficacy of the change is related to the number of people who understand and believe in the change
Process
- Take the time to document the process so that it can be clearly followed
- Socialize the process as it’s being built to ensure all equities are considered
- Once final, loop in senior leadership (executive version) so they understand their portion of the process (if applicable)
People
- Belief in the change must be followed through. Writing down a process doesn’t produce change unless people put it into action
- Don’t let the spent energy go to waste! Follow through and adjust the process as necessary to deliver results
- After some time has elapsed, revisit the process with fresh eyes and new information to see if the process can be improved (start the cycle again)