Buy In

I've been impressed again recently how critically important it is for leaders of change to do everything they can to create "buy in" by the people who are affected by the changes they implement *BEFORE THE CHANGES ARE PUT IN PLACE*. Without "buy in," those who are forced out of their comfort zone by whatever changes are made are going to experience mild irritation at the least and bitter resentment at the worst. Any degree of confusion or dissatisfaction will make the job of the change agent more difficult.

So, how do you create "buy in"?

First, include as many people as possible in the change process. If people don't understand something they are usually against it! You might explain the changes a hundred times, but if the people don't want to hear it, they won't listen!

Second (related to the first point), people own what they help create. So give opportunities for a broad spectrum of people to give input or express their opinions about a particular project. Let people feel like they actually can have an influence on the final outcome.

Third, if a small group is assigned to make certain changes they need to take their proposals back to the larger group for approval or ratification before going forward. For instance, if a team needs ideas for an advertising brochure to promote an upcoming event and they assign the development of the brochure to a small committee, the committee needs to bring back their ideas to the rest of the team before they trot off to the press! Get "buy in" by the team members, and life will be much more pleasant!

Here's to full and open communication everywhere!