Understand the ebbs and flows of change and you’ll be a better leader

28 September 2023

Twist Consultants writes...no change is ever the same, whatever the organisation. When you’re leading through uncertainty, recognising that there are ebbs and flows and how you might be able to navigate them can help. Here are a few ideas that might just help.

Photo of waves with the sun in the background

Inspired by several conversations recently about the process of leading change, I’ve been reflecting on my own experiences in this field, both from the perspectives of advising leaders and leading teams in times of change.

There are always ebbs and flows – no two journeys will be the same for any leader and their organisations and expecting the unexpected is a good position to take, always.

Here are few other things to consider:

When you’re leading change, you’re leading people as well as a plan and that includes you. Building awareness of yourself and others is a brilliant device to have in your toolkit.
Intentionally recognising where you are at any one time is helpful as change can feel like a very different leadership experience. You may be in different leadership modes, from design to plan, listening to empowering, instructing or doing and this will differ depending on the type of change, too. Your behaviours and ways of leading will vary in each. If you’re spending too much time in one mode – say instructing - check in with yourself to see if that’s still the most useful approach for you and your team right now, to achieve your objectives.
Change is different for everyone. We have different emotional responses to it, and all go through things at different speeds. Awareness of this is key. Being impatient with folk who aren’t travelling at your pace won’t help anyone. Empathy wins here.
It’s not all about the destination – the journey really matters, and we need to allow more time for it. Conversations are vital opportunities to help understand what’s happening, how things are being received and adjustments that might need to be made.
If you think you have all the answers, you might just be in the wrong role. Instead, being adaptable, knowing it’s OK to fail and learn, being open to tweaking plans and incorporating different ideas and opportunities – all are key in leading change.