Randstad Canada offers leaders insightful advice to successfully implement change management strategies in today's fast-paced business world.
TORONTO, Oct. 24, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - Change is an inherent characteristic of any organization and like it or not, all organizations must change in order to remain relevant. But it is how change is managed that can be the difference between surviving and thriving in business. Randstad Canada, the Canadian leader for staffing, recruitment and HR Services, believes when it comes to change management, leaders must apply a structured approach when implementing successful change management strategies.
According to Hanna Vineberg, vice-president Central Ontario at Randstad Canada, as leaders of change, managers have a critical role to play in ensuring that the change effort is successful. "In order to align everyone in the organization around the change, and make sure a it has a positive and long-term impact, managers must develop a thorough implementation plan, and above all, a strong and compelling communications program," she says.
Vineberg suggests a few, high-level principles to keep in mind when managing change:
- Describe the benefits: Emphasize the benefits of adopting the change. Explain where the opportunities lie for employees and highlight the possibilities in terms of growth and development.
- Identify zones of resistance: Be sensitive to how individuals respond while keeping in mind that the process of commitment and acceptance takes time. Make sure you understand where the resistance comes from, and craft and deliver a message that will help employees view the benefits of the change, and support them through the transition.
- Communicate and involve: Allow the employees to become a part of the process. Involve workers in the planning process, mobilize your team through an inspiring vision, and be able to support and listen if you encounter resistance, and provide sufficient training.
- Get feedback and reinforce: Make sure you put in place channels to provide and collect feedback to better understand your employees' concerns and issues, whether through focus groups, surveys, hotlines, etc.
- Monitor results: Evaluate your program with ongoing metrics that will identify weak areas and minimize any downside to unanticipated new issues. Revisit the initiative periodically and realign it to your business goals.
Vineberg emphasizes that effective change management is about collaboration, discussion and open lines of communication. "Even though change can be destabilizing, it is an opportunity for growth and innovation," she says. "Leaders that communicate in a clear, inspiring and timely fashion will be better positioned to manage change successfully and to build a shared vision of the future.''
This week, Randstad Canada launches its 10th annual Breaksfast Seminar Series in 11 cities across Canada. The focus of this year's event is on change management and features renowned speaker Marc André Morel.
About Randstad Canada: Randstad Canada is the Canadian leader for staffing, recruitment and HR Services. As the only fully integrated staffing company in the country, we understand the recruitment needs and demands of employers and job seekers across all levels and industries. Through our insightful knowledge of local markets, employment trends and global network of recruitment experts, we are shaping the Canadian world of work. Visit randstad.ca
SOURCE: RANDSTAD CANADA
Dayana Fraser
416.962.9578 x2317
Marie-Noelle Morency
514.350.5309 x233
Share this article