Mandana. G. Moba
Resistance to change is an opposing force that carries out by employees in an organization that is going through a restructuring process or implementing a change or a new procedure. The resistance can complicate the process of the change or create a longer process. To prevent complications during the change implementation, leaders should consider that change is a team project and it does not rely on one person or one part of the team, also change is a process, so it always takes time to reach the desired outcomes.
Although the strategic plans are fabricated by leaders, the implementation has to be done by employees, which highlights the importance of employees' engagement. Each employee has their own individuality, therefore they react differently, and by understanding this simple fact, leaders can prevent unnecessary tensions and conflicts in the workplace.
Communication is the essential element of a successful organizational change. Employees need to know the reasons behind these changes, the expectations of their leaders, and how these changes are going to happen. Furthermore, they need to have the tools for implementing these changes. A company can not ask the employees to perform in a certain way, without giving them a transparent direction or the ability to do it, either by providing information or the tools. Companies that communicate with transparency are able to create a trustworthy environment for their employees, which leads to more cooperative and innovative employees. Employees who work in this kind of environment show more participation and collaboration with their leaders and are usually committed to achieving the company's goals. Overall, employees who work with trustworthy leaders feel more valued and empowered and show more commitment to the company's vision and missions.
It is crucial for leaders to create a team-oriented work environment, where the contribution of each employee is valued and they feel that they are part of the team and working toward the same goals. Creating an environment of trust, help the leaders manage the projects in a more efficient and productive way with less drama and conflicts. Conflicts and dramas are usually found in poor ethical environments that have leaders who are lacking the knowledge and skills. Conflicts are time and cost consuming and decrease productivity, that is why it is necessary to create a team-oriented and well-communicated environment to increase the probability of success for the company. Furthermore, Ethical leaders practice more fairness which increases satisfaction.
In summary, companies who are able to change, adapt and succeed in today's highly competitive market are the ones who strategically plan for the long term, communicate with transparency, have ethical culture, empower and give values to their employees, and have skilled leaders and practice fairness.
References:
Image retrieved from: https://executiveeducation.wharton.upenn.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/2003-leading-successful-change.jpg
Hyland. P. K. (2007). Resistance to organizational change: The impact of followers' disposition toward change and supervisors' leadership style. Retrieved from: https://www.proquest.com/docview/304861155/fulltextPDF/F79B1E91A0A6496BPQ/1?accountid=197609
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