3 Strategies to Create a Culture of Change
Sep 29, 2024
Days are getting shorter. It’s dark when I wake up and gets dark earlier in the evening. The temperatures are cooler in the mornings. The leaves are transitioning in my neck of the woods.
The seasons are changing…
Apparently, no one cares what I think about these changes because no one called or emailed to ask if I wanted them, much less were prepared for them. Seems I have no control much less influence on the changing seasons.
Ridiculous for me to expect consultation about the seasons? Of course.
Almost as ludicrous as you expecting consultation about all of the new realities that just show up in your work culture. Their daily assault can paralyze you. If they at least sent a memo, right?
So how do you deal with it and continue your efforts to create a positive work culture?
Here are 3 Strategies to Leverage Change for a positive work culture:
Believe the Change is Real
Our first reaction to change is usually, “Why? What’s wrong with the previous way?” We crave the familiar. Our brains recognize it and know what to do. Often we weren’t consulted about the need for change or the rationale. “Here is it is. Deal with it” is the usual response to our questions.
Say to yourself, “It is what it is. I may as well make the best out of it.”
Then list the reasons it’s real, i.e., my boss said so, that OS is no longer supported, you can’t buy parts for it.
This listing helps you avoid denial, beat back fear, and move forward to realizing the change is real.
Bridge from the Familiar to the Unfamiliar
Now detail the change by starting with what’s familiar.
Most likely the change performs the same basic function as something you do currently, just with enhancements. What is that function? List everything included in the change that you recognize even vaguely.
Next, describe and list the unfamiliar aspects of the change.
What’s immediately recognizable as different? What’s your reaction to that difference?
Now connect the familiar to the unfamiliar.
What seems similar? Your fear and anxiety diminish with this exercise because your cognitive overcomes your emotive in recognizing the familiar. Your head talks to your gut and says, “It’s okay.”
You bridge from the familiar to the unfamiliar.
Build to Support the Change
Finally, ask yourself, “What are the opportunities for growth?”
Perhaps the technology involved allows you to work automated while you do other tasks. Or, maybe productivity increases which ultimately grows profits for the company.
Look at the systemic changes necessary and ask:
“What must we do to adapt?
“Who needs training and development?
“How do we accelerate people and profit growth?”
These questions focus you on the positive dynamics of the change. Think of them as the features you do have control and influence over.
Then implement your answers so you create a Work Positive culture.
Leverage change for a Work Positive culture as you:
- Believe the change is real.
- Bridge from the familiar to the unfamiliar
- Build to support the change
What’s your question about how to create a positive work culture? Ask Dr. Joey here.
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