Working Through Resistance Dr. Karen Watts Copenhagen International School

Backdrop of Resistance It is not uncommon for resistance to occur within the ‘’context of change’’

Early Notes Related to Resistance The importance of listening for meaning The importance of paraphrasing The importance of clarity Create opportunities for open dialogue Give opportunities to excel Focus on a forward momentum This may lead to brave conversations

Elements of Brave Conversations Providing positive affirmations Working shoulder to shoulder--building trust Creating a plan of action together Building a commitment to the change process Creating an ongoing feedback loop

What may resistance look like? Refusal Lip service Blame Delay ‘’In the past we did it this way...’’ (past practice) In your face resistance Insincere compliance

Three levels of resistance Level 1: People need more information and know what the change is about They need to have time to think and need an opportunity for feedback Level 1 Response: Provide the information with clear consistent reasons for the change. Allow time and a chance for feedback.

Levels of resistance continued Level 2: FEAR. People may be afraid they are losing control. Level 2 Response: Identify the fears and address them. Let them know we understand how they feel. (Empathy) Listen for meaning and find a common ground.

Levels of resistance continued Level 3: Problems may seem overwhelming to those who are resisting. (multiple variables) For example, people may be resisting based on school history, based on the position you hold when you are speaking and what we represent in terms of the change process. Level 3 Response: Working together in teams to help transform the school culture. What are the school norms and how do they support the change process?

Important Reminders When working through resistance it is often helpful to: Use open ended questions. Avoid the use of ‘’why?’’ questions Ensure that message sent is message received(use clarity) Allow thinking time (take a break or ‘’let’s reschedule’’) Have an action plan and remember to have the feedback loop