Communicating Change Without Creating Chaos

When you are introducing a change to your team, it is important to outline what will be different, why it matters, and how you plan to implement it. While change is often for the benefit of the team, it can also be a disruption, so you want to ensure that the change is communicated effectively and you allow time for questions. Everyone has a different reaction to change, and some people might even be resistant to change, so that’s why you need to be open and honest with your team early in the process and understand that implementing change may take time. The more people you can get to buy into the change, the easier the transition will be.

For many team members, the most important thing to them is that they feel as if they are kept in the loop. When you introduce something drastically different from what they are used to, and they had no idea that the change was even being considered, it can create chaos and confusion. While you do not necessarily have to communicate every possible change with your employees as you consider making adjustments, you should at least clue them into the fact that you see a need for change, and you are in the brainstorming process.

For example, if you intend to completely restructure the bonus system within your organization, you may want to inform your team that you are working on making adjustments to the system that would still be fair and beneficial to everyone, and you will keep them updated as decisions are made. This reduces or eliminates the shock factor that often comes with change. You should also explain why the change is being considered and what you hope to accomplish by introducing it. 

When you are communicating change, it is important to outline a clear plan for its implementation. You cannot just tell your team about something new but refuse to provide details on it. If it directly affects them, they have a right to know about it. Be open, honest, and consistent in your communication. Address any concerns that your team may have to the best of your ability, and be sure to provide ongoing support as the change is implemented. People often fear the unknown, and you don’t want to add to the chaos, so again, you need to explain what the change is, why it matters, and how it will be implemented. Effective communication leads to effective change.

-Meghan Slaughter