23. Leading Change

Occasionally, despite trying every solution you can think of, the organizational change you are trying to lead is not making progress. Employees may be confused, or key players may actively resist the change. Communication techniques and management skills will only get you so far if one of the key leadership traits required for successful change needs polishing. Self-awareness, perspective, compassion, and willingness to work hard are core character traits that enable successful change leadership. Awareness of one’s limitations is the first step to personal growth and acquisition of new skills. With proper perspective, you are able to see seemingly unrelated factors and communicate to others so they see their place in the change. Compassion for yourself and others in the face of much uncertainty and willingness to work hard and do what is necessary—even when it is really uncomfortable—are key in making change management skills and techniques successful.