How to start managing change when the change is unclear

Being involved early in a change is always a good thing. In fact, Prosci research shows a direct correlation between starting change management early and meeting or exceeding project objectives. Although engaging early can be a challenge when specific details are unclear or still emerging, waiting has consequences. Don’t let this dilemma make you feel stuck. You can add significant value when you start early, even with incomplete information.

Fear and Change

Sudden change can evoke fear. People fear change that threatens them, such as those who have become good at what they do over a long timeframe and fear that this will set them back. When we introduce change, we should consider the emotional response and give space for people to process.

Change management vs. Change leadership – What’s the difference?  

These terms are not interchangeable. The distinction between the two is actually quite significant. Change management, which is the term most everyone uses, refers to a set of basic tools or structures intended to keep any change effort under control. The goal is often to minimize the distractions and impacts of the change. Change leadership, on the other hand, concerns the driving forces, visions and processes that fuel large-scale transformation. In this video, I delve a little deeper into the differences between the two concepts, and highlight why we need more change leadership today.