Are You a Change Leader?
We have had the pleasure of supporting a wide range of organisations in implementing positive changes over the past years. The key to a successful process has always been the engagement of stakeholders at all levels.
A great catalyst for the transformation process is to appoint and train Change Agents within the organisation who promote and enable change, as well as help and inspire others through the collective change journey.
However, truly successful organisational change depends on Change Leaders – managers and executives who have direct authority with people going through the transformation – to support and execute change in their span of influence. Effective leaders acknowledge that their support is crucial to success and commit to doing their part.
What is your role as a Leader during change? Here is a handful of suggestions for you:
1. SPONSOR & ROLE MODEL – Leaders act as advocates for the change and are willing to use their political capital to make the change happen. They go first and demonstrate the behaviours and attitudes that are expected of everyone else.
2. DECISION MAKER – During change, leaders must leverage their decision-making authority and prioritise the options that will support the initiative or programme with resources such as people, budgets, and tools.
3. COMMUNICATOR – Leaders are the face and the voice of change. They have to share information in a transparent and consistent way to keep people updated and offer encouragement.
4. MOTIVATOR – Leaders provide the motivation to change and get people involved. They show commitment and passion about getting things done. They acknowledge that change can be difficult and offer recognition to those who are participating and doing well.
5. ACCOUNTABILITY GUARDIAN – With their authority, leaders hold people in the organisation accountable for the change. They uphold agreements and make sure others do the same.
Successful Change Leaders recognise the importance of the unique part they play in change and are aware of their blind spots.
Are you ready to be a Change Leader?