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Why your employees might be resistant to change

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Implementing changes in a business could be very difficult but even more if employees are not in favour of the changes.  By knowing why employees might be resistant to change, effective communication strategies and media could be developed in advance to overcome any obstacles and to adequately  inform employees about the changes (also read my post on how to communicate changes).

Here are the five most common reasons why employees might resist the changes you want to implement in your business:


  • Employees do not really see or understand the need for any changes.
  • Fear of management changing the status quo.
  • Reluctance to work with other colleagues or in different teams.
  • Employees not willing to take on more responsibilities.
  • Employees might fear retrenchments, early retirement or other issues that might threaten their long-term security in the business.
Honest and open communication play a crucial role in implementing changes in the business. Employees need to receive detailed information about how changes will affect their position in the business.  As a manager you need to discourage any rumours which might make employees even more resistant to change. Also allow enough time for your employees to become used  to and prepare for the changes.  In addition allow for enough feedback opportunities and also listen to your employees' concerns or any other suggestions.  Employees must trust you and accept the changes as being the best for the business.  The biggest mistake any manager could make is to withhold any important information related to the intended change.


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