Training Tools
Handling Workplace Changes
We’re all used to a certain amount of change in the workplace - a coworker takes a job at a different company, the office location is relocated, and patients complete their program and move on. Very likely, we deal with these changes in similar ways that we deal with changes in our personal life, with varying degrees of success. Larger, company-wide changes can often be harder to handle.
According to Harvard Business School, changes at a company occurs for two reasons:
Adaptability: when an employee or organization implements new processes to “fine-tune” what is going on within the company, like adding a new page to your website or offering a new service
Transformational: when an entire organizational philosophy, business structure, or culture changes from the top
Change Can be Challenging
Both types of changes in the workplace can be challenging for a variety of reasons. Sometimes we have to learn new skills, which can take time and cause frustration when we feel less efficient. Sometimes we have to change deeply entrenched habits, adopt new goals, or change our mindset. Even changes that excite us still require more effort than “the way we’ve always done it.”
Insight Global offers the following 10 tips for dealing with change in the workplace:
1. Accept that change will happen. Companies that don’t change, stagnate. And, no matter how much you might dread change, it will happen at some point. It helps to recognize that you’re not alone. Many of your co-workers probably feel similar feelings of trepidation about what the changes will bring and uncertainty about what is expected of them.
2. Look at the bigger picture. Change usually happens for a reason. Ask yourself why change is occurring, and it may give you insight into how to handle it better or how to focus your own efforts. Seeing the bigger picture also makes it more evident that change is rarely personal (though it may feel that way), but impacts many people in addition to you.
3. Trust that your leaders are taking care of you. Company leadership should be there to serve you and make sure you are being taken care of. You may not fully understand why a company change is happening, but if you trust your leaders, it can be easier to accept not knowing.
4. Also: Trust your gut. “If something feels wrong or “off,” or you have this nagging feeling that there is more going on than what meets the eye, trust yourself and see where it leads you,” the Insight Global blog suggests. It may lead you on your own personal journey of professional change, such as seeking a new position or new employer or to learn better strategies for handling workplace stress. In any case, it can feel empowering to realize that you have power over your workplace situation.
5. Take action if necessary. The article says: “If something feels wrong and you need to take immediate action, then do so! If you think that information is being withheld from you or your team and that it is unprofessional or unethical, tell the person responsible how you feel.” This will help you feel better and let your leaders know that you’re relying on them to make good decisions and use clear communication.
6. Don’t fight change unless it’s worth it. “Before you fight against change, make sure it’s worth your time and energy. If the only thing that changes is a few extra responsibilities being passed around across to an entire team, or responsibilities are being changed among the team with good reason, then it may be a good idea to embrace this change.”
7. Work together as a team. If one person on a raft is paddling against the other five rafters, they still won’t get the boat to go where they want. And, it makes it harder for the rest of the people in the boat. “Instead, try to work together with your team–whether that be a couple of people in your department or as the whole company–to successfully implement any change in the workplace.”
8. Treat everyone in the workplace equally and with respect. This is a good workplace rule regardless of what change may be going on.
9. Communicate, communicate, communicate. Good communication is always imperative to work effectively, but also to relieve feelings of insecurity brought about by company changes. If you’re not in a leadership or communication role (or you are, but don’t have adequate information to communicate with others), communicate with upper management about what information you need to do your job and feel confident about it.
10. Set goals and remain motivated. “No matter what happens with change, always set goals and remain motivated in your own personal purpose and the company’s purpose.” Company change can serve as an impetus for your own growth and advancement, adding fuel to your motivation to improve at your job.
New Employee Spotlight
Zac David
As a recovering addict, Asana Recovery Behavioral Health Technician Zac David has a personal interest in helping others.
The proud dog owner of Nala, a Labrador he raised from a puppy, David enjoys hiking. He also loves weight lifting and martial arts and has earned a black belt in tae kwon do and a blue belt in jiujitsu.
A graduate of the University of Mary Washington with a degree in Applied Psychology, David likes good food, spending time with friends and family, and being in nature.
Daniel French
A graduate of Saddleback College, Daniel French finds it rewarding to help individuals in recovery. The Behavioral Health Technician at Asana Recovery is also a musician. Daniel loves surfing and spending time with his daughter, Corinna.
Trivia
Question: What are the 3 Stages of Change?
Contact HR with your response for the chance to win a gift card!
Answer to last week’s trivia: The hottest air temperature ever recorded was in Death Valley (Furnace Creek) at 134°F (57°C) on July 10, 1913. During the heat wave that peaked with that record, five consecutive days reached 129° F (54°C) or above. Death Valley holds the record for the hottest place on Earth.
Last week’s winner was: Nicole B