How do you involve your team in the change process and solicit their feedback?

1 Why involve your team?

One of the main reasons to involve your team in the change process is to increase their buy-in and commitment to the change. When your team members feel that they have a voice and a stake in the change, they are more likely to embrace it, rather than resist it. Involving your team also helps you to identify and address any concerns, fears, or questions they may have, and to leverage their insights, ideas, and expertise to improve the change outcomes.

2 How to communicate the change vision

The first step in involving your team in the change process is to communicate the change vision clearly and consistently. The change vision is the rationale, purpose, and benefits of the change, as well as the desired future state. You should explain why the change is necessary, what it entails, how it will affect your team, and what you expect from them. You should also communicate the change vision in a way that aligns with your team's values, goals, and motivations, and that highlights the opportunities and rewards of the change.

3 How to solicit feedback

Another important step in involving your team in the change process is to solicit their feedback regularly and sincerely. Feedback is the information and opinions that your team members share with you about the change, such as their reactions, suggestions, concerns, or questions. You should encourage and welcome feedback from your team, and create a safe and respectful space for them to express themselves. You should also listen actively and empathetically to their feedback, acknowledge their perspectives, and respond constructively and transparently.

4 How to involve your team in decision making

A third way to involve your team in the change process is to involve them in decision making whenever possible and appropriate. Decision making is the process of choosing a course of action or a solution among different alternatives. By involving your team in decision making, you can increase their sense of ownership and empowerment, as well as their understanding and acceptance of the change. You can involve your team in decision making by asking for their input, ideas, or suggestions, by involving them in problem solving or brainstorming sessions, or by delegating some decisions to them.

5 How to recognize and reward your team

A fourth way to involve your team in the change process is to recognize and reward them for their efforts and achievements. Recognition and reward are the ways of expressing appreciation and gratitude for your team's contributions and performance during the change. By recognizing and rewarding your team, you can boost their morale, motivation, and loyalty, as well as reinforce the desired behaviors and outcomes of the change. You can recognize and reward your team by giving them positive feedback, praise, or acknowledgment, by celebrating their successes and milestones, or by offering them incentives, bonuses, or perks.