Nido Qubein on Change

In a recent BizLife Magazine article, Nido Qubein (a North Carolina business leader and President of High Point University) shared his thoughts on “Implementing Change.” I’d like to pass along some of his thoughts to you.

If you have already seen my DVD “Overcoming Resistance to Change,” some of Nido’s suggestions echo what you heard me say on my video. But, Nido adds several suggestions that are definitely worthy of your consideration.

Nido began by saying, “People hunger for stability amid change.” This is true. People need a sense of security and stability. Fear of loss can be paralyzing. Paralyzed workers are not productive.

Nido believes a company can promote stability several ways:

1. “Explaining the reasons for the change.”

As I explained in my video, employees will resist whatever they see as nothing more than management’s “Change de jour.” Employees are busy. They must see the change as important, relevant, and urgent.

2. “Showing how the company’s plans keep risks to a minimum.”

This is also true. Most large organizations are full of members who are risk-averse. It is critical to be mindful of that fact.

3. “Emphasizing the things that will remain the same.”

This provides predictability and continuity.

4. “Letting people know what to expect, step by step.”

As I stated in my DVD, employee anxiety is reduced when leaders provide as much information as possible. Transparency leads to trust.

5. “Letting people know that management has confidence in the change.”

Nido emphasizes the importance of managers leading throughout the change. Leaders must “get out and talk to people.” Leaders must be highly visible during change initiatives.

6. “Commending them and recognizing them for the constructive changes they make.”

I could not agree more on this one. As a change consultant, I help organizations overcome resistance to change. Invariably, I spend a considerable amount of time working with leaders on determining appropriate rewards for the employees who display the new behaviors required for successful organizational change.

Does your organization, or client’s organization, follow Nido’s suggestions? You can learn more about Nido Qubein’s leadership advice by visiting his website http://www.nidoqubein.com/. You can view video clips of my “Overcoming Resistance to Change” DVD at my website http://www.mikebeitler.com/.