Change – A View from the Top

I recently heard this statement: “Spring is a lovely reminder of how beautiful change can truly be.”  So, consider the change taking place in the following situation:

At the beginning of the school year, the executive director of a private school announces he is retiring at the end of the school year. So everyone affected has nine months to get used to the idea. Shouldn't be a problem, right?  Well, not until the board completes their search and makes a decision between two final candidates – one internal, one external who had previously taught at the school. Needless to say, a majority of the staff wants the internal candidate chosen, but their hopes are dashed when he's not. 

As soon the announcement is made, the gossip and the rumors start. They aren't just about the new executive director or the internal candidate not chosen. They are rumors about the teachers too – which ones may leave because of the choice. Even the students are getting pulled into the scuttlebutt. 

We discuss this very situation in The Essential Workplace Conflict Handbook. No matter how hard the new leader tries to instill confidence and let the existing staff get to know her, this change can bring conflict out in the open. In this scenario, the new leader won't be starting for several months -- and conflict is already rearing its ugly head. 

What to do?  The current leadership must recognize change causes fear. Respect the fears being manifested and listen to people's concerns. Use the rumor mill to spread accurate information to counter the gossip and negative information that's rampant. Over-communicate. Use every available communication methods to reach the staff (including the teachers), parents and, yes, the students. Be honest with people and treat them with respect. Communicate realistic expectations keeping in mind that everyone wants to know how the changing organization is going to affect them.

Remember, the hardest part of change is getting through it.  The conflict tunnel can be dark, but the light at the end may be brighter than the one at the beginning. You can learn more by reading Chapter 1 of The Essential Workplace Conflict Handbook which discusses What’s New at Work?