Change as the Differentiator - the Why Behind the Change
The pandemic has hit us all in different ways and with varying results, and in our direct experience, what sets successful leaders and organizations apart is the way they build trust and drive change despite the challenges.
The topics of trust and change have been the theme for most of our 2023 blogs as well as our coaching and speaking sessions. At a recent speaking engagement, we explored the topics of why to change, whether to change, what to change, and how to change. This month, we will drill down into the why behind the change, and next month, I will provide some thoughts on WHETHER to change and how to facilitate change where and when necessary.
I hope that the thoughts below help you think through the why Behind the Change.
Speed to Market
Adopt changes which allow you to better plan and deliver quality products and services for an anticipated market and customer need, for that will reap financial and brand rewards.
Scale of Impact
Select change opportunities which have the highest impact on bottom line results, on customer satisfaction, on environmental impact. (Ideally these options would have minimal resistance!)
Expansion of Market
Think more broadly and openly about how your current offerings address the needs of your current customer base, and how strategically expanding both the target market and the range of offerings would impact your organization and its impact.
Evolution of Market Conditions
Respond agilely to market conditions so you can effectively decide WHAT you need to change, WHY that needs to change, and HOW to facilitate that change.
Shift to a Purpose
Adopt a ‘purpose-driven’ strategy and message and deliver an offering which makes a difference, from the perspective of your employees and your customers.
Collaboration Opportunity
Shift to an opportunity where you partner with others to deliver exceptional results. It is generally worth the effort, if planned and managed well.
Innovation Opportunity
Err on the side of innovation - whether it’s just making offerings leaner, faster, more sustainable, or whether it’s something wholly original, different, and category-creating!
Improved Employee Experience
Deliver exceptional employee experiences which would help drive recruitment, retention, development and engagement of your people.
Expand the Social Impact
Focus on driving and expanding the social and practical impact of your offerings, and drive community and connection behind these offerings as well.
Go Beyond Sustainability Goals
Plan, executive and drive programs which deliver measurable results for your sustainability-conscious employees and customers.
Change is inherently difficult for many, yet inevitable for all. Clarifying your WHY behind necessary changes is a good starting point for driving change with efficiency and grace.