Strategies for Leading Through Change: People Matter

Session
Leadership and Management

Author
Norka Saldana
Senior Consultant
ValuMetrix Services-Ortho Clinical Diagnostics, a Johnson & Johnson company

Description
New leadership strategies founded on change management principles are necessary for survival in this unprecedented economic crisis. The focus should be on making the change real, making it work and making it last. Leadership discipline is critical for creating an environment were effective change drives continuous improvements in business performance.

Abstract
Businesses constantly go through change. Research has demonstrated that 70% of all change initiatives fall short of expectations. If the change is managed appropriately, it can result in a positive business impact. By proactively leading change, organizations will more quickly achieve their business goals. Strategies for leading through change minimize employee resistance, the number one obstacle for successful implementation of a change initiative. The right strategy will also minimize the dip in employee productivity by improving employee morale and capabilities through involvement, communication, and education. Leading through change requires a robust change management process in place. The Change Integration Process presented in this session involves getting individuals and groups ready, willing, and able to implement and sustain new ways of working. Leading through change requires well established conditions for success including clear understanding of the readiness for change, clear communication of the business goal and desired future state, commitment to the desired future state, "people" engagement in the planning and execution of change and the ability to implement and sustain new ways of thinking.