Change
I find great energy in change, embracing new concepts and finding better ways to get things done. Not everyone shares my enthusiasm for change, which is why it is important to manage change. In my experience I have found that new initiatives succeed when there is more emphasis on the people who are affected by the change than on the process itself. In simple terms, change must be communicated!
There are 4 key steps to managing change:
(1) Clarity in all areas
Before going anywhere with a proposed change you need to have pristine clarity with regard to:
- The business need for the change
- The specifics of the change
- The benefits of the change
- Most importantly the impacts of the change
(2) Consistent leadership
For change to be successful, 75% of a company's management needs to "believe” in the change. So convincing people that the change is necessary is extremely important.
This will require strong leadership and visible support from key people within your organization. Managing change isn't enough - you have to lead it.
(3) Constant communication
You can never "over communicate" in leading and managing a change situation and especially with regard to what is happening or not happening and why.
This is also a communication process that listens actively and demonstrates to people that you have thought through the impacts of the change on them, and that you are prepared to work with them through the transition, and that you will help make it work for them.
(4) Capability and resources
You must make sure your people have the full resources and capabilities they need to support them through the change. This all boils down to: translating vision and strategy into actionable steps.
I would like to tell you about the latest change at AH Harris.
It is with great pride, Harris Pride, that I have accepted the position of President of AH Harris. It is an honor to be able to continue to serve the men and women of Harris.
I owe a debt of gratitude to Shane O’Kelly, not for the opportunity, I earned that, but for the inspiration and leadership, for preparing AH Harris to not only endure this recession but to become stronger.
This change will have a minimal impact on our day to day operations; our regional leadership will not change.
In fact I see this change as an opportunity to launch. We will focus on what we do best; building strong relationships/partnerships with our customers & vendors! This allows us to be the best construction supply distributor in the industry.
We will all miss Shane and his leadership – but we are stronger because of him – we are Harris Pride!
As always, I’d love to hear what you think. Email me at kim.corwin@ahharris.com
