Leading Change: The Old Way vs. The New Way

As Ahmad El Tom , the general manager of illus Lighting , I understand that one constant in our business is change. In?the?past?few?years, how and where we work has transformed, and our workforce has evolved alongside it. Organizations like ours face new challenges every day, and it’s crucial for leaders to harness the opportunities that these changes present. So, how can we make change appealing to our team members, especially after the constant adjustments we've all faced?

Here are four actions I recommend to lead our team through change and ensure that it’s fully accepted:

1. Communicate When I introduce a change, I recognize that it may bring shock and uncertainty. I emphasize the importance of the change and communicate its necessity. I provide clear details about what’s to come, while respecting the feelings of uncertainty that my team might experience.

2. Educate As we progress through changes, I know that some team members might cling to the “old way.” When I encounter resistance, I focus on educating and equipping them with the knowledge they need to adapt. I ensure we have the resources for learning and coping with new challenges.

3. Coach As acceptance grows, I take on the role of coach, guiding my team on the new practices we’re adopting. I set clear expectations for both my team and myself, fostering an environment where we can all grow and develop through these changes.

4. Reinforce Ultimately, I aim for my team to fully accept and integrate the changes. I provide ongoing support and recognition as they build confidence in their new practices. It’s important to optimize our processes while allowing team members to take ownership and shine.

While resistance is a natural part of change, I believe that by following these steps, I can help alleviate my team’s anxieties. As I guide them through the process, I also demonstrate my commitment as a leader. Supporting their reactions and acceptance of change not only enhances their performance but also builds trust in our leadership at Illus Lighting.