Few change initiatives succeed the first time they are launched. Resistance to change is a potent human reaction so expect challenges and outright rejection. It’s what you do next that matters.
If you continue to believe wholeheartedly that your proposed change will increase the value produced for customers and your company, then persevere. Evaluate the basics of your strategy:
- Are you appealing to the appropriate audience? Do they have the experience and analytical ability to recognize the potential benefits from the change? Or does fear of change paralyze them? Win support from those who can advocate for your idea.
- What’s the story behind the change? Is it compelling? What is missing? Revisit your research, rework your details, clarify your promise, and then refine your story.
- Ask open-ended questions to probe the basis for the resistance. Some of your audience may need to be heard before they can join your initiative.
When encountering change resistance, how do you react?
Why is perseverance the key to winning?
