Question

consider some of the facotrs of individual resistance to change. Why are these factors of individual resisance how might a successfuk organziatioal leader overcome some of these factors of individuals resistance. How might a successful organizationl leader overcome some of these factors of individual resistance

Habit

Security

Fear of the unknown

loss of status and power

Threat to values and ideas

Answer 1

If we look at the various change management frameworks we can see some common features between them all. Some of these are creation of a sense of urgency and need for change, telling of a good story, celebrating small wins, etc. We need to keep this mind when tackling the resistances to change.

Habit is by far the easiest resistance to break. There is no logical explanation for which habit should be maintained in an organization. Security is a tough one. However, the team members must be made aware that if the change does not come then there is no security either way. Thus holding on to a virtual sense of security does not provide practical benefits.

Fear of the unknown is a very strong motivation for resistance. This can only be outweighed by a known event where the results are unfavorable to all parties. As a result, we can make a strong case for the need for change. Loss of status and power is again similar situation. However, we need to inform our team members that status and power will eventually be restored once the organization stabilizes.

Finally the threat to values and ideas is the hardest challenge to overcome. It is true that any organization undergoing change may face loss of values or change of values. This is not a welcome situation by the employees, organization, or the other stakeholders. Thus it is key to let the employees know that everyone is on board to restore the values and ideas of the organization post the change.