10 Tips for Effective Change

Change is constant that much we know. It’s thetactics for the unexpected or non-eventualities.  Not
speed of it that makes effective change critical andeverything fits perfectly so have a plan of action for
planning for what may happen next imperative. Justthe bits that won’t fit.
look at the effect social networking tools like TwitterTip 4 – Walk the Talk
and Facebook are having; anyone anywhere canBe careful what you ask for.  Operate with integrity
make their opinion available to everyone on anythingat all times and don’t expect others to buy-in
at anytime effecting change instantaneously.when paid lip-service.  Do as I Do not Do as I Say.
Phenomenal!Tip 5 – Knowledge is Power
So how best to manage and lead effective changeWatch and listen. Observation is a powerful skill that
within business? First consider the following:strengthens trust reducing the belief that to share
1. What form does effective change managementknowledge is to give up power. Be genuine in
take in your organisation now? andattempts to increase comfort levels and maximise
2. What experience are those on the receiving endknowledge sharing.
actually having as a result?Tip 6 – Listen with an open mind
Objectively considering these questions provides aListen to what isn’t said.  Leave pre-conceived
unique opportunity to increase the speed of changeideas aside and be open to another’s view. It
while keeping it appropriate for your organisation andmay not affect the immediate situation but it could
its people.  There is no ‘one size fits all’encourage a different response in the future.
solution. Good change needs proven techniques.Tip 7 – Learn to Juggle
These techniques are not rocket science butBe flexible and pragmatic during delivery. Adapt to
occasionally we need reminding of the basics. Thesesituations before or as they arise and collaborate with
10 tips take us back to basics to revitaliseothers to relieve the pressure and ease the way
perspective, reduce pain and accelerate the pace offorward.
achievement.Tip 8 – Stay on Track
Tip 1 - Get clear on the ObjectiveWhen reviewing progress check the direction as well
SMART objectives = Specific, Measurable,as the destination. If the purpose has shifted or
Achievable, Realistic, with a specified Time foractivities are off track don’t hesitate, make the
completion. Take an honest look at the input used tonecessary adjustments quickly to reduce the chances
specify them. Treat it like a balloon; twist and expandof waste.
it every way possible keeping the organizationsTip 9 – Make the Tough Decisions
needs central at all times.Not all decisions will be easy ones. Sometimes it’s
Tip 2 – Assess all Strengths & Weaknessesthe situation rather than the decision that’s
Managers know the purpose and importance of atough.  When faced with a tough decision try the
SWOT Analysis. Pretend it’s an onion and peelNike attitude - Just do it!
layer after layer to expose the SWOT results. LeaveTip 10 – Reflect on everything
nothing unpeeled to expose previously undiscoveredManaging effective change doesn’t end with
gems and limit the unexpected.delivery. Genuine lesson learning requires reflection
Tip 3 – Plan, Plan, Planwithout judgement or blame. Only when all that’s
Like a jigsaw puzzle a plan has many components.occurred is acknowledged can adjustments be made
Know what they are, their interrelationship,and the next experience different.
responsibilities for delivery, success measures, and