The HR Professional and The Role of the HR Change Agent Joan Goings SHRMA Meeting August 27, 2008

Objectives and Competencies Understand the drivers behind change Understand the impact of change on yourself and others Understand the use of a change model and a change process Understand the role of the change agent in managing and sustaining change Understand strategies to successfully negotiate change

Objectives and Competencies Core Competencies for the Change Agent Role Applies Information Technology to Human Resources Management Designs and Implements Change Process Possesses Marketing and Representation Skills Demonstrates Customer Service point of reference

Objectives and Competencies Some other shared competencies for the Change Agent Role Understand business process and how to change to improve efficiency and effectiveness Understands public service environment Understands team behavior Uses consultation and negotiation skills including dispute resolution Possesses the ability to build trust relationships Communicates well Assesses and balances competing values Knows business system thinking Posses good analytical skills including the ability to think strategically and creatively Uses consensus and coalition building skills

Fundamental Understanding of Change Resistance to Change Why people may resist change… Loss of security or status Inconvenience Distrust or uncertainty Cognitive difference of opinion

Fundamental Understanding of Change Eight Steps for reducing resistance Be prepared Clarify purpose Explore concerns Legitimize concerns Reflect others’ statements Respond actively Get closure Establish follow-up

Fundamental Understanding of Change Stages of Change Denial Resistance Adoption Involvement

Fundamental Understanding of Change Transition and Change Endings—Letting Go Neutral Zone New Beginnings

Fundamental Understanding of Change Reaction to Change How do you react to change Recognize the Seven Dynamics of Change

Creating an Atmosphere for Change Communication, Communication, Communication Building Trust Relationships Empathize Remember the little things Keep Commitments Clarify and fulfill expectations Be loyal Sincerely apologize

Managing Change Identifying a Change Model Begins by asking who, why, what and how

Becoming a Change Agent Characteristics of an Effective Change Agent—Being a change agent means throwing yourself into the middle of the chaos change inevitably causes. Control your attitude Take ownership of the change Stay focused Keep your sense of humor Practice good stress management techniques Create your future instead of trying to redesign the past

Becoming a Change Agent Influencing Strategies Sustaining Change - when the going gets though...

Becoming a Change Agent Key Points Gain a perspective on the shift in HR and share that to help others understand the reason for change Use your understanding to assume a proactive role Determine your “change style” Look for sign of resistance to change and determine ways to minimize Proactively contribute to creating an environment for change Use a change model and a change process Keep focus on the new way of doing business