How can you use your leadership skills to drive change?

1 Define the vision

The first step to drive change is to have a clear and compelling vision of what you want to achieve and why. A vision is not just a statement of objectives, but a story that inspires and motivates people to join you in the journey. As a project leader, you need to communicate your vision frequently and consistently, using different channels and formats. You also need to align your vision with the strategic goals and values of your organization, and show how your project contributes to them.

2 Engage the stakeholders

The second step to drive change is to identify and engage the key stakeholders who can influence or be affected by your project. Stakeholders are not only your team members, but also your sponsors, customers, partners, suppliers, and other internal or external parties. As a project leader, you need to understand their needs, expectations, concerns, and interests, and build trust and rapport with them. You also need to involve them in the planning, decision-making, and feedback processes, and provide them with regular updates and support.

3 Manage the resistance

The third step to drive change is to anticipate and manage the resistance that may arise from your stakeholders or yourself. Resistance is a natural reaction to change, and it can manifest in different ways, such as denial, anger, fear, confusion, or apathy. As a project leader, you need to acknowledge and address the sources and symptoms of resistance, and provide clear and honest information, guidance, and reassurance. You also need to listen and empathize with the emotions and perspectives of your stakeholders, and help them overcome the barriers and challenges they face.

5 Lead by example

The fifth step to drive change is to lead by example and demonstrate the behaviors and attitudes you expect from your stakeholders. As a project leader, you are a role model and a catalyst for change, and your actions speak louder than your words. You need to show commitment, enthusiasm, and confidence in your vision and project, and be open, honest, and respectful in your communication and interaction. You also need to show flexibility, resilience, and humility in facing the uncertainties and difficulties of change, and seek feedback and support when needed.

6 Grow yourself

The sixth and final step to drive change is to grow yourself as a project leader and a professional. Change is not only an external process, but also an internal one, and it requires you to constantly reflect, evaluate, and improve your leadership skills and competencies. As a project leader, you need to seek and seize the opportunities for learning and development that your project offers, and leverage them to enhance your performance and career prospects. You also need to recognize and appreciate your strengths and achievements, and acknowledge and address your weaknesses and gaps.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?