Why Is Change So Hard (Even When It's Good for Us)?

Let’s face it, change is tough. Whether it’s a new software tool or a revamped process, it often feels like trying to teach a cat to fetch – and the cat’s not interested.

But why do we resist, even when the change promises to make our lives easier?

Spoiler: it’s not just about being stubborn.

This edition of our newsletter digs into the why behind workplace resistance to change – and more importantly, how to flip the script.

Whether you're introducing a shiny new tech tool or a simple process update, understanding the psychology of change can help smooth out those bumpy transitions.

The psychology of "no thanks"

We’ve all been there: Management rolls out something new, but instead of excitement, you’re met with groans (or worse, radio silence). It’s not personal – it’s human. According to research, 72% of workplace transformations crash and burn, with the two main culprits being employee resistance and lack of management buy-in.

Yeah, ouch.

The brain is wired to keep things predictable, which is why new things, like software, can feel like a threat (thanks, System 1 thinking). Nobel laureate Daniel Kahneman says it’s our automatic, routine-loving brain that’s often behind the resistance. We stick with what we know because it’s comfy – and that new shiny thing? Not so much.

Research shows that change initiatives often fail due to resistance from two key groups: middle management and frontline employees

Why do employees often resist change?

• Employees resist when they don’t understand why the change is happening or how it will benefit them. It’s like trying to sell them on a “great new app” without explaining why it makes their lives easier.
• New technology, like AI or automated systems, can spark fears about job security. Employees may wonder, "Is this tech going to replace me?" Uncertainty about the future and tighter monitoring also add to their anxiety.
• Behavioral changes and increased workloads without clear incentives make people ask, “What’s in it for me?” Lack of motivation is a major factor behind resistance.
• Employees take their cues from managers. If leadership is skeptical or resistant, the rest of the team will follow suit. Distrust in leadership also erodes any potential for change to succeed.
• Nobody likes to be blindsided by change. When employees aren’t part of the decision-making process, they’re less likely to buy into it.

But why does middle management often resist change??

You might think that leadership would be the first to champion new initiatives, but even managers can put up barriers:

• Problems with organizational culture
• Lack of knowledge about the changes
• Lack of support for change management
• Mismatch between personal triggers and project goals
• Lack of confidence in their own ability to manage the change

Resistance to change isn’t just about reluctance, it’s a natural reaction rooted in human psychology.

How to turn resistance into “heck yes!”? Join our webinar to find out!

?? October 10, 2024 | 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM CEST

Struggling to get employees excited about new tools? We feel you. That’s why we’re hosting the From Resistance to Welcome: Make New Technology Popular in the Workplace webinar, where we’ll spill the secrets to turning that tech resistance into full-blown enthusiasm. Because we all deserve fewer sighs and more heck yes moments at work.

?? Please note: This webinar will take place in Dutch ??

This webinar is for you if: You’re tired of employees dragging their feet on new tech, you’re leading tech adoption and need a win (or several), you want to understand the psychology behind why people say “no” (and how to turn it into a “yes”).

Meet the experts:

• Danny Assen , Commercial Manager at MANUS NL
• Andrea Popma , Customer Success Director at Speakap
• J?rgen Franke , Operations Director at Intergamma Bouwmarkten
• Eline Kuiper , Work & Organizational Psychologist, Head of HR at Speakap

Don’t miss it! Register now, and even if you can’t make it live, we’ll send you the recording. Because life happens, and we’ve got your back.

?? Register here ??