Times of Transition

Times of change and transition can involve confusion and difficulty. Nightingale Resolutions have worked with a number of organizations experiencing times of transition. We have worked with organizations going through major reorganizations as well as ones with key leaders leaving. Through our work with them, we have developed these tips to help others in times of transition. We recognize the coronavirus to be something completely different than the examples above. However, it is still a time of transition that calls for thoughtful consideration as you move your organization through it.

Here are some tips for the next few months:

• Stay ahead of the curve.
  1. Generally speaking, people don’t like surprises.
  2. Misinformation or lack of information is worse than difficult information.
  3. Provide clear and helpful information ahead of any changes.
     • See “A Guide for Clear Communication”

• Welcome directed feedback
  1. People will be talking about the changes with or without you.
  2. If you want to influence what they are talking about and how they are talking about it then you have to provide them a space to do that.
  3. The space must do a combination of three things:
     • Offer specific topics to discuss.
     • Give constructive ways of discussing the topics.
     • Be clear about the possible uses of the feedback.

• Recognize the change
  • Identify an analogy that will guide the time of transition.
    1. Recognize the difficult elements of the transition.
    2. Recognize the heroic and helpful responses from others in your organization.
       • Keep that front and center.

Example of an Analogy

“During this time, we are like a boat that is afloat but facing challenges. We see the land we are aiming for but only some of the obstacles are seen at this moment. The leadership team will be navigating our course considering the known obstacles and anticipating there will be unknown ones that will present itself. We are thankful for the positive responses we’ve received in relation to these changes. Special thanks to our IT department because they have got us all connected in 2 days. We will continue to navigate these unknown waters with caution. We appreciate all your continued contribution to the success of this organization.”

Using these steps will allow for the changes you are facing to go more smoothly. It will not remove the hard conversations but it will allow you to be respectful to your employees and the community you are responsible to.

If you have further questions please feel free to contact us.