As we enter a new century destined to be filled with even more change, the ability to guide and shape change has become a key skill of the 21st century executive. Over the years I have observed many companies going through the change process. Resistance to change is easier to prevent than to remove. Effective communication, to a large extent, determines the success of change. The way a change is implemented may stimulate more resistance than the change.
People underestimate their capacity for change.
Change is all about people and their mindsets. Research in the area of human development indicates that our attitudes, beliefs and behavior styles are established by ages 18-21. Change from then on will come only when a significant, sudden or emotional event occurs. As you discuss changes with people, ask yourself, which of the three basic types is this person, and then modify what you say based on that answer. It's no secret that people balk at change imposed by decree and devoid of explanation, or when it is sprung too rapidly, or when it is threatening, yet I see this happening in countless organizations.