Strategies For Managing Change In Tough Times
Posted: Monday, November 24, 2008
by Colleen Kettenhofen
Colleen Kettenhofen and Associates
Turn on the television and the talk these days about a possible economic depression is, well, depressing. Having strategies for managing change is one of the most important skills in tough times. And because of the recent announcement that the unemployment rate is at an all time 16-year high, managing change in the workplace is more important than ever.
1. Take action. Fear can paralyze us. In these times of uncertainty, it's easy to think, "What's the use," and freeze. But it's imperative to do what we don't feel like doing and take action. For example, taking more classes, reading more books, attending seminars and overall honing our skills. The old adage used to be, "To earn more, you must learn more." Today it's, "To stay employed you must learn more than ever before." Expand your knowledge base. Get training in new areas. Consider taking up a hobby that could turn into a part-time job. No one can take away your education.
2. Be service-oriented, ask for feedback, and listen. The workplace has become so competitive that to keep your job, or stay in business, you need to deliver the best product or service in your field. Go the extra mile. How do you do that? Ask your customers for feedback. On a scale of one to ten, how would they rate your product and/or service? And what specifically do they think needs to be improved?
Don't be afraid to take the risk and ask. Listen to the answer. Act on it. Right now, some well-known American companies are hemorrhaging financially partly due to bad management, complacency, and not keeping up with the demands of the marketplace. They're looking to place the blame on outside circumstances. So ask for feedback and listen. Develop a plan.
3. In managing change, stop complaining. Yes, you have to give up complaining about how awful everything is and stop making excuses. This is difficult sometimes because there's a certain amount of sensationalism and adrenaline in complaining. But more often than not, we complain because it's easier than taking the risk of going through the work of getting whatever it is we want. Change and risk involve time, effort, sometimes money, and maybe even ridicule. After all, in managing change there's usually a learning curve. We might make a mistake.
In managing change, if you don't like your outcome, change your response. If you're in a situation you don't like, either work to make it what you want or get out. Don't complain about it and make other people miserable. It's been said that attitudes are more contagious than colds and flu. Ultimately, your attitude will determine your altitude.
"The only time you find success before work is in the dictionary." May V. Smith
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Top-level comments on this article: (2 total)Change, yes managing change. Well a few things come to mind, resources, time money, opportunity. All significant to success. Yes maintaining a positive outlook even under the most dire of circumstances. Setting priorities that are realistic and that need attention now, Facing your situation head on, knowing your options, choosing a path that is achievable. Cut out all the hype and get down to what can or can't be done. Good article but change can be very difficult for a lot of people who do not have the skills to make it. yes and I am afraid many will fall if not already.Hi Robert,Thank you for your comment. I think a lot of people probably have more knowledge, and maybe more skills...or potential skills, than they realize. I think time and money are the biggest obstacles for many. I've noticed you've written many good articles. Are you on Linked In? Take care. Colleen Kettenhofen
Hi Colleen,
A supercharged article with many inspiring points. They're also true. I liked reading them all but the one telling us to stop complaining is a favorite. It's a pet peeve. My dad, God bless his soul, used to say that about success and work coming first only in the dictionary. I enjoyed this article very much. Thanks! A happy Thanksgiving holiday to you and yours!
Warm regards,
AvisHi Avis,Thank you for your kind comments. Yes, I thought people would like that quote about success and work. Have a wonderful, safe, and happy Thanksgiving!Sincerely,Colleen
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