Change Management (CM) has become a catch all in the business world for making change happen. However, in doing so, business leaders have completely missed the point.

Here are a few things to keep in mind as you lead change:

• The role of CM should not be to push bad decisions or selfish agendas. CM should always be focused on the greater good for the business, industry and all involved (that means employees and customers too).
• An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. I’m sure you’ve heard that many times before. So, why I am referring to it now? Great question! In CM, the ounce of prevention is clarity. Clarity about what is changing and why. Clarity in communication. Clarity in expectations. Clarity when it’s time to pivot and readjust the plan.
• It’s about the people. CM humanizes change. We’ve all seen the changes coming, experienced the fear and anxiety and lost good employees because of mismanaged change. After all, the systems, procedures and dollars aren’t capable of feeling emotion around change but your people are. CM done correctly will minimize the negative impact of change, maximize momentum and create harmony between tech, finance, policies and people.
• CM isn’t rocket science. It’s much more complicated. In order to lead change you have to be able to see the big picture and respectfully lead those who have a limited view. You must see the business side, the tech side, the environmental, the human side and any other side there may be. Remember, not everyone knows what you know and that’s ok. You don’t have to teach them everything you know, you just have to meet them where they are at. Change means something different to each person. Recognizing that, reducing fear, setting healthy expectations, understanding where your people are in the emotional journey of change, holding space for them and communicating clearly will help create successful change.

Leading through change is an opportunity to invest in your people. The skills taught will help them succeed far beyond the walls of your business. Change is everywhere and it is a muscle that gets stronger when exercised in healthy ways.

Lead on and change your world!