Embracing Change: Adapting communication during periods of workplace growth and renewal
Photo by Ross Findon
Spring is in full swing here in New York City which means the trees are coming back to life and my cat is enthralled by the influx of pigeons on our fire escape. Spring is also a poignant reminder of the ever-changing nature of our environment. Just as nature adjusts to the rhythms of the seasons, so too must we, at times, adapt to a dynamic landscape at work.
In this week’s post we’re drawing inspiration from the renewal and growth of spring to focus on the importance of adapting your communication at work during periods of change. Read on for practical strategies teams and leaders can use to communicate effectively through periods of growth and renewal at work.
“The greatest discovery of all time is that a person can change their future by merely changing their attitude.” - Oprah (naturally).
Change is inevitable, but how we respond to it can make all the difference in our success. In today's fast-paced work environment, adaptability is not just a valuable skill—it's a necessity. Teams and leaders who face change with resilience and agility are better equipped to thrive amidst uncertainty and disruption. Whether it's a shift in market trends, technological advancements, or organizational restructuring, the ability to navigate change effectively is key to staying ahead of the curve.
Encourage a growth mindset
One practical strategy for embracing change is fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation within the workplace. Encouraging employees to adopt a growth mindset, where challenges are viewed as opportunities for growth, rather than omens portending inevitable failure, helps cultivate a culture of communication at work that is more adaptable and resilient in the face of change. #Protip: provide ongoing professional development opportunities for communication skill development, training, and cross-functional collaboration which empowers employees to embrace change with confidence and enthusiasm.
Transparent Updates and Tailored Messaging
Transparent and regular updates about organizational plans ensures that stakeholders are kept informed about changes, progress, and future plans. By fostering an environment of openness and accountability, organizations can build trust and confidence among their teams, laying the groundwork for seamless transitions and sustained momentum. Regular updates also provide an opportunity to address any concerns or questions, fostering a culture of transparency and collaboration.
Tailored messaging is essential for engaging diverse audiences within the organization. Each stakeholder group may have different needs, concerns, and levels of involvement, making it crucial to customize communication to resonate with each group. Whether it's frontline employees, middle management, or executive leadership, tailoring messaging ensures that everyone receives relevant information in a format that speaks to their interests and priorities. This approach not only enhances understanding and buy-in but also fosters a sense of inclusion and belonging within the organization.
Actively Build Trust
Communicating change in a way that builds trust requires crafting your message as a compelling narrative that resonates with your audience. One effective tool for building trust with others at work is storytelling. Storytelling actually affects the way we feel about others on a biological level! According to the research of Paul Zak, storytelling stimulates the release of oxytocin, also known as the "trust molecule," which fosters empathy and connectedness. Share your own experiences and feelings openly and courageously to establish credibility and relatability. Be clear and direct about the changes, avoiding fillers and qualifiers that could dilute your message. Practicing sharing your narrative out loud helps you build confidence and ensures that your message lands effectively with your colleagues and supervisors, paving the way for a smoother transition and stronger relationships.
Learn By Example
Real-life examples and case studies of companies that have successfully navigated change through effective verbal communication strategies offer valuable insights and inspiration. Take, for instance, the merger of two leading tech companies, Microsoft and LinkedIn. When Microsoft announced its acquisition of LinkedIn, the leadership teams from both companies proactively communicated the rationale behind the merger, emphasizing the shared vision for empowering professionals and driving innovation. Through multiple touch points including town hall meetings, webinars, and personalized messages from executives, employees were kept informed about the integration process, including how it would impact their roles and responsibilities. This transparent and open communication approach fostered a sense of trust and alignment among employees, enabling a smoother transition and integration of the two organizations.
Celebrate Milestones
Recognizing and celebrating milestones, achievements, and successes along the journey of growth and renewal is vital for maintaining morale and motivation within an organization. It's essential to acknowledge the efforts of individuals and teams, highlighting their contributions to the company's progress. These moments not only serve as opportunities to celebrate accomplishments but also to reinforce organizational values and goals. By recognizing milestones, organizations reaffirm their commitment to their employees' growth and success, fostering a culture of appreciation and encouragement.
By cultivating a culture of adaptability, continuous learning, and transparency leaders can navigate the dynamic landscape of the modern workplace with confidence and resilience in the spirit of renewal.
About the Author
Jackie Miller launched Bespoken in 2015 to channel years of professional performance experience into techniques that improve public speaking, presenting, and professional communication skills. She holds a B.F.A. and M.A. both from New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts.