In an ever-changing business environment, it is as important for
employees to adapt as it is for
organisations.
However, employees often resist change, not realising that adapting to
change is the key to staying relevant in today’s workplace. ET lists out ways organisations can deal with employees who resist change.
1. REASON OUT
An employee-friendly and transparent feedback mechanism helps everybody in the organisation perform to the best of their capabilities. “Implementing basic initiatives like town halls, coffee catch-ups with the CEO, department reviews, site visits and skip levels enable employees to share suggestions and provide feedback,” said Harish Gandhi, director of HR , InterGlobe Enterprises.
2. COMMUNICATE WELL
“Use efficient channels to communicate at the right time,” said Vipul Singh, VP & head of HR, CSR & communications at ADP Pvt Ltd. There should be a constant contact with employees all throughout the change cycle. “Gently, tell employees that change will happen gradually and for sure, will give them the time to adapt,” Singh said.
3. BE AVAILABLE
Try to maintain an ‘open-door’ culture so that employees can share their apprehensions, if any. “Employees should be able to talk to their manager at any time and also approach the senior leadership if required,” said Yogendra Agnihotri, director of human resources, South Asia, at the Radisson Hotel Group. “Employees should feel free to approach anyone, no matter what the issue is,” he said. “When employees see that the employer genuinely cares, they will want to become a part of the change,” said Singh of ADP.
4. SET ROLE MODELS
Some employees may support the change and such employees should be identified first. “Find employees who are eager for improvement as their
enthusiasm would rub off onto other colleagues and, in time for change, most of the employees will be ready,” said Singh. Give employee examples from the past or relevant fields to make them understand that adapting to change is a key parameter that differentiates startups that survive from those that don’t, said Ravichandran.
5. ENCOURAGE EMPLOYEES
Push for team spirit. Try to bring together employees. “Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships,” said Agnihotri. Also, support suggestions from employees. “Incentivise employees’ suggestions wherever possible. The feeling of being valued at work will influence employees to come up with great suggestions and add value,” said Singh.