“Change” is not a dirty word

Change has become a six letter dirty word these days as many of us have been subjected to the latest buzz words for describing it such as reorganization, downsizing, outsourcing, and synergy analysis. Although it may go by many different names the feelings are always the same; fear and anxiety. This is the time to decide whether the “Change” controls you negatively or positively.

Remember you can always react negatively, be normal and complain within the crowd. Often when put in this position individuals tend to stop, become depressed and decide to give in since they feel there is no hope.  So much drama but there really isn’t much time to make an impression. Corporate change is going to happen and your reaction is the only thing within your control.

Positively controlling your reaction will separate yourself not only for your management but in your mindset as well. When you start to look at how this new direction can benefit your career, open opportunities or allow you to move on to another company it changes the perspective entirely.  As with anything worth doing right this doesn’t come easily.

Preparing yourself in advance for these type of potential changes will put you in a better position for controlling your reactions when they do come. Do not be fooled as so many in the past have been thinking things corporately will be the same year after year. By advancing your skill set intentionally during the times of stability your company will benefit from a better equipped employee. This also strengthens your worth if downsizing is the chosen course both internally and externally.

Expanding your skill set, network and confidence level to perform in various roles will allow you to look at corporate changes as a vehicle to free yourself from the fears and anxiety others in your organization will endure. It may seem negative to prepare for the worst and hope for the best yet after it is done others will look to you as an example on how to react positively when changes occur in the future. 

Collaborations - The good, bad and the ugly!

Have you ever been included on a team, committee or board that is filled with like-minded individuals where when you worked together the end result was magical? The stars align, the project is a success and everyone is joyful throughout the duration of the process. Now this doesn’t occur very often but when it does you cherish it and even compare future collaborations against the experience.

Too often these teams, committee and boards do not leave you with this awe inspiring feeling. The emotions that can be felt most often include a variety of frustration, blocked, discouraged, outraged and even a twinge of depression. Who wants to be part of this type of operation at work, home or through a volunteer organization?

Collaborations like these can be avoided if an agreement can be made over roles, responsibilities, expectations and goals. Aligning the goals and roles in the beginning can eliminate stress as it reduces the ability to change directions in the middle of the operation. Accountability is attainable when the entire group is aware of responsibilities, expectations and the direction at the beginning.

When outlining these specifics realize that there really can only be one overall leader for any group project. Although one will lead overall each member of the association will be leaders in their own capacity. No role on a team, committee or board is unimportant but getting the correct people in the appropriate roles is very important!  

Once the correct people are in each role let them lead and magic will occur. It may not always be the way you would do it but if you support them the team will operate smoother ensuring that you come much closer to reaching your goal than through the negative feelings written above.

If you are participating in one of these positive teams be thankful and continue to enjoy the experience. If you in one of the negative environments, you can try to reset the perceptions by openly talking as a group and discuss the frustrations or discouragement that has been holding back the achievements. Sometimes this will work as long as the team members can avoid pointing fingers. Other times you have to walk away and promise to go into the next project with an open mind along with the learnings you gained from your past.