How to Make Positive Changes in the Workplace

Too often change is seen as a negative issue in the workforce. Managers react passively to change or try to manage change that is already in motion. However, change can also be a planned initiative, a positive force that is purposefully initiated for a specific result. The type of positive change you are looking to implement in the workplace will vary depending on the situation and specific needs of the workforce. But the methods used to effect change can be the same, regardless of the nature of the change you are seeking.

Instructions

1. Survey the workforce to identify the areas where positive change is needed. The survey can also serve as a baseline to measure the impact of your efforts to effect change.

2. Involve the entire workforce in planning and implementing the change. Brainstorm the best ways to implement the change, using focus groups and targeted pilot programs to identify the best approach. Including staff not only provides additional ideas and feedback on the best ways to effect the positive change, but it also increases buy-in and acceptance of the need for change.

3. Implement a workplace mentoring program. Carefully select the mentors you use, and enlist them to help with the change you are seeking by teaching the desired behavior and actions to other employees. Mentoring provides a way to drive development and promote positive change. By assigning mentors to newer members of the team, you shape the future workforce in a positive direction.

4. Implement a wellness program alongside the changes you are looking to achieve. The introduction of wellness programs and assistance not only increases employee morale and overall productivity, but it helps employees manage their own stress, whether the stress is caused by personal factors or by the changes introduced to the workforce. Even positive changes can be stressful during implementation, so target the wellness resources specifically to address and assist with change management.

5. Repeat the workforce surveys to identify if the changes are effective and if any undesirable or unanticipated side effects of the change have occurred. Include a measure of workplace attitude to ensure the positive changes have also effected a positive change in employee attitude.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't limit the brainstorming and feedback to the initial implementation stages. Aim for continuous feedback so that you can identify problems and issues associated with the change.

References

• America's Heroes at Work: Workplace Mentoring
• Vermont Department of Health: Vermont Worksite Wellness Resource
• Connecticut Office of Personnel and Management; Personal Leadership and IIndividual Responsibility in the Change Process; Gary B. Kempker; February 2009
• Pepperdine University Graziano Business Review: Developing a Barometer for Workplace Attitude (WPA) - How can Attitude in the Workplace be Measured to Impact Positive Change?; Ray Valadez; 2007