Guiding Libraries & Info Pros Through Change David Lee King Digital Branch & Services Manager Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library
First, some “quotes”
1970’s: adapting to OPACs
1980’s: The PC takes off…
1990’s: Internet Appears
2004: “Web 2.0” coined
Change, the old way Leaders simply ordered changes Goal: getting the change accomplished When it fails, leaders review details of the change
They’re looking in the wrong place
Change is external
Transition is internal
Most leaders base the project on getting the change accomplished rather than on getting people through the transition.
3 Steps to Transition 1.Saying goodbye 2.Shifting into neutral 3.Moving forward
1. Saying Goodbye
Letting Go of the Past
2. Shifting into Neutral
100% Focus on Details
Some get stuck here!
3. Moving Forward
Resistance Will Happen!
Resistance isn’t the problem Management’s reaction to resistance creates the problems The resistors probably don’t see it as resistance - they see it as survival
Three levels of resistance 1.Information-based 2.Physiological and emotional 3.Bigger stuff
1. Information-based Not enough information Disagreement with the idea itself Not familiar with idea Confusion
2. Physiological/Emotional My job is threatened My future with the organization Respect of my peers
3. Bigger Stuff Personal history Who you are – race, religion, etc Significant disagreement over values Transference - the person being resisted represents someone else (fill in the blank)
How to Navigate Through Change
Just for Leaders (and techies) You've already come to terms with the change Understand why people might not want to change Understand that it's the transitions, not the change, that's causing waves
Steps to Take Describe the change succinctly Plan carefully Help people respectfully let go Constant communication Create temporary solutions when needed Model new behavior!
Don't do these things! Don't confuse novelty with innovation Don't confuse motion with action Don't keep something going if it “still has a few good years of life”
For techies You might be able to change quickly There are areas where you DON'T change quickly Always share too much… Technojust(ification)
If you refuse to change: Missed career opportunities you'll miss out on the opportunity to expand your network and your ability to develop new relationships You’ll miss out on the possibility of shaping your new destiny and reality
Parting Thoughts on Change
Questions?