7 Survival Strategies
The Challenges
For a company to survive in today’s dynamic business environment, effective Change Management is crucial. An article published in the Harvard Business Review (2019) highlighted research conducted by multiple scholars and found that change initiatives face a high failure rate, with estimates ranging from 50% to 75%. The study identified the following factors as significant challenges in navigating change successfully:
Employee resistance
Lack of clear vision
Inadequate resources
Cultural barriers
The Strategies
Recognizing and addressing these challenges through research-based strategies and best practices can increase the chances of successfully managing change.
Our experts at reesmarxGLOBAL have identified the following seven strategies and practices based on the most relevant studies and their own professional experience in Change Management:
Communicate the Vision
A study by Prosci, a leading change management research firm, found that effective communication is the top contributor to successful change initiatives. Clearly articulate the reasons for change, the desired outcomes, and how it aligns with the company’s long-term vision. Regularly communicate progress updates and address concerns to keep employees engaged and informed.
Create a Change-Ready Culture
Research by McKinsey & Company highlights the importance of fostering a culture that embraces change. Develop an organizational mindset that values agility, continuous learning, and adaptation. Encourage open dialogue, innovation, and experimentation, to allow employees to feel empowered and motivated during periods of change.
Engage Employees
Engaging employees throughout the change process is vital. Studies have shown that involving employees in decision-making and seeking their input improves commitment and reduces resistance. Establish mechanisms for feedback, provide training and support, and encourage leaders to actively listen and address concerns.
Develop Strong Leadership
Effective leadership is critical during change management. Research by the Center for Creative Leadership reveals that leaders who demonstrate flexibility, empathy, and clear communication during change increase employee support and commitment. Invest in leadership development programs to equip managers with the necessary skills and support their role as change agents.
Provide Adequate Resources
Insufficient resources can hinder successful change initiatives. Research conducted by the Project Management Institute emphasizes the importance of allocating adequate budget, time, and skilled personnel to support change efforts. Ensure that employees have the necessary tools, training, and resources to adapt to the changes effectively.
Foster Collaboration and Teamwork
Encouraging collaboration across teams and departments facilitates knowledge-sharing and problem-solving during change. A study published in the Journal of Applied Behavioral Science found that companies that promote teamwork and collaboration experience higher levels of employee commitment and adaptability to change.
Monitor and Adjust
Continuous monitoring and evaluation of change efforts are essential. Research suggests that companies that regularly assess progress, identify challenges, and make necessary adjustments achieve better outcomes. Therefore, collect feedback, track key performance indicators, and adapt the change strategy to ensure continued success.
Success
It’s important to note that the success of change management initiatives may vary based on the specific context and nature of the change. Therefore, companies should consider tailoring these strategies to their unique circumstances and seek further research and guidance as needed.
How We Can Help
If your company has change management initiatives currently in the works or on the horizon, ensure your success against the odds with expert guidance from reesmarxGLOBAL. Contact us to help you with the people side of change.
