Marcus Clifford looks at the gnarly issue of ‘Change’ in print businesses and why it is difficult for many to embrace it naturally and see it as a positive challenge to innovate and grow. Maybe it’s time to review what you do and how you do it.
Rather than having negative feelings towards change, what’s stopping us from instilling this approach and mindset to embrace change in teams and individuals? It’s worth having structured team conversations on this topic as, surprise surprise, change is not going away!
A positive mindset approach to change would be great to have in our businesses.
It would drive growth, pushing us to adapt and discover new personal and professional capabilities. Embracing change helps us break out of ruts, encouraging a more open and positive outlook. Change can challenge our values and beliefs, offering opportunities to deepen or reaffirm them. Being open to different perspectives can lead to new insights or strengthen our convictions.
Facing change reveals our inner strengths, often uncovering resilience and adaptability we didn’t know we had. Change breaks up routines, helping us stay mentally active and avoiding the trap of stagnant or negative thought patterns. OK a lot of people like routine. Fear and discomfort can be a first base reaction.
WOW Hey!
I still see a ‘them and us’ mentality in businesses where those affected by change see it as something imposed by management, the owners acting unfairly. There is a lack of understanding and appreciation of the fact that businesses operate in an environment that is volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous. (VUCA) What is not fully understood by all, it seems, is maintaining an equilibrium is near on impossible, and so change is always required to counter the forces acting on the ecosystem. Understanding fundamentally the ‘Why’ is important to ensure beliefs and actions are aligned.
Embracing the psychology around change is more key than ever due to VUCA, and research by Mckinsey identifies the most effective practice for successful change focuses on four core actions to shift mindsets and behaviours: building understanding and conviction, reinforcing changes through structured systems, developing skills and talent, and setting strong examples. Together, these actions form what they refer to as the ‘Influence model’.
It is an interesting framework designed to support successful transformations by focusing on changing mindsets and behaviours within organisations. It identifies four essential actions and supporting behaviours that, when combined together, drive lasting and effective change.
Fostering Understanding and Conviction
This step ensures that employees understand the need for change and believe in it. It involves clear communication around the “why” of the transformation, highlighting its benefits and the risks of not adapting. Creating a compelling narrative helps people feel connected to the change and committed to it.
Reinforcing with Formal Mechanisms
To sustain change, it’s crucial to integrate new behaviours into the organisation’s structures, processes, and systems. This may involve updating incentives, performance management systems, or policies that align with the desired behaviours, ensuring that the changes become part of the organisation’s DNA.
Developing Talent and Skills
Lasting change requires equipping employees with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the new environment. Providing training, coaching, and opportunities for skill-building helps staff feel prepared and competent, enabling them to embrace the transformation confidently.
Role Modelling by Leaders
Leaders play a key role by embodying the desired changes. When leaders consistently demonstrate new behaviours, they set a visible example that inspires others to follow. Role modelling at all levels reinforces the change and builds trust across the organisation.
Marcus Clifford is a business coach and consultant who can help you transform your business and review the psychology behind it for lasting impact. Someone you can have interesting and impactful discussion with. 0774 381 8806 Marcus @printboosterologist.solutions
