When organizations undergo reorganization, change management becomes critical in ensuring a smooth transition. Change management refers to the process of preparing, equipping and supporting individuals or teams to navigate organizational change effectively.
To get expert advice on navigating change management, we spoke to the team at Two Kin Consulting, a firm that specializes in organizational change consulting.
According to Bria Schaeffer, Managing Partner at Two Kin Consulting, communication is a crucial aspect of change management during reorganization. Bria advises that organizations should be transparent with employees about the reasons for reorganization and the potential impact on individuals and teams. “Leaders should be clear and concise in their communication, so that employees feel like they have a good understanding of what’s happening and what to expect,” she says.
Bria adds that communication should be ongoing and personalized. “Different employees may be impacted in different ways. So, it’s important to take the time to understand each employee’s unique situation and communicate accordingly.”
Another important aspect of change management during reorganization is engaging employees. Bria suggests involving employees in the reorganization process whenever possible. This can be done by soliciting their feedback on the new structure, involving them in planning and decision-making, and even empowering them to lead change efforts.
Taylor Terrill, Partner at Two Kin Consulting, notes that change management during reorganization can be particularly challenging because of the potential for resistance. “Resistance is a natural response to change, and it can come from any level of the organization,” says Taylor.
To overcome resistance, Taylor recommends involving employees in the process of change. “If employees feel like they have a say in the reorganization, they are more likely to accept and support it,” she explains.
In addition to involving employees, Taylor advises organizations to provide training and support to help employees navigate the change. This can include training on new tools and systems, coaching and mentoring, and even counseling services.
Finally, Bria emphasizes the importance of measuring the success of reorganization efforts. “Organizations should have a clear understanding of what success looks like for the reorganization, and regularly measure progress towards those goals,” she says.
By measuring success, organizations can identify areas for improvement and adjust their change management efforts accordingly.
In conclusion, change management during reorganization requires a thoughtful and strategic approach. By being transparent, engaging employees, overcoming resistance, providing training and support, and measuring success, organizations can navigate the process more effectively. To learn more about navigating change management during reorganization, contact Two Kin Consulting.