What Strategies Overcome Resistance to Workflow Changes in Teams?

What Strategies Overcome Resistance to Workflow Changes in Teams?

Navigating the complexities of change within a team's workflow can be daunting, so we sought the expertise of CEOs to share their strategies. From introducing a new team member to implementing a regular feedback loop, explore the four transformative tactics these executives have successfully used to overcome resistance to change.

• Introduce a New Team Member
• Open Discussion for Workflow Concerns
• Foster Clear Communication and Phased Approach
• Implement a Regular Feedback Loop

Introduce a New Team Member

Bringing in a new team member can foster change in a resistant team. Often, hierarchies are set early: an unwavering workflow is due to a stagnant leader and followers hesitant to speak up. Introducing a fresh personality can be the upset required to encourage a shift in delegation without producing hurt feelings or having to demote anyone.

The last thing you want to do is remove anyone from the team in the middle of a project; additions are less disruptive and can produce a similar effect.

But choose carefully, and think hard about what's missing or wrong with the current workflow, and be sure you're adding the right person to the mix.

Open Discussion for Workflow Concerns

Have an open discussion with the parties involved. As members of the leadership team, we make decisions that we feel benefit everyone's workflow and output. But if team members are showing resistance to certain changes, there has to be a conversation about it to understand why. After all, they have the most visibility regarding the processes and are the ones executing these workflows, so they have every right to have a say in the matter. If they have reasonable arguments as to why there's resistance to the change, these can be reconsidered. If the current workflow makes the team redundant and mediocre, then it must be further analyzed, discussed, and reinforced, but in a way that gives importance and value to the team members' insights.

Foster Clear Communication and Phased Approach

To overcome resistance, fostering clear communication was key. I engaged the team in open dialogues, addressing concerns and emphasizing the positive aspects of the new workflow. Implementing a phased approach allowed for gradual adaptation, minimizing disruption. The lesson learned: In change, transparency and inclusivity are catalysts for collaboration. By acknowledging team input, we transformed resistance into a collective effort, making the transition smoother and more widely accepted.

Implement a Regular Feedback Loop

One strategy I've implemented to tackle resistance in changing a team's workflow is 'The Feedback Loop' approach. It's natural for people to resist change, and it can be demotivating if they feel unheard. That's why I have created a system where everyone's voice matters. If changes are expected, we have brainstorming sessions where every employee can share their thoughts and concerns. Their input is valued and often incorporated into the plans. This regular feedback loop not only ensures that everyone's on the same page but also cultivates a sense of belonging and acceptance toward the new workflow.