In the world of change management, we hear all sorts of assumptions – but what really drives change success?
At the core lies a holistic approach, one that considers people’s feelings, involves them at every level, and moves through the stages of adaptation.
It’s clear that there are assumptions, or myths, as to what really drives change success. This blog post explores some common myths in change management and highlights what really drives success.
Myth 1: “Change Management is Just About Communication”
Communication is crucial, but it’s only one piece of the puzzle. Many think that if you communicate well, you’ve ticked the change management box. But effective change requires a multi-faceted approach that goes far beyond sending out emails or holding meetings. Communication must be paired with engagement, training, support systems, and a clear vision of the change’s impact on people’s roles.
Truth: Effective change management involves a balanced approach—addressing mindsets, behaviours, skills, and resources to truly embed change. Communication opens the door, but support keeps people moving through it.
Myth 2: “Resistance to Change is Always Negative”
Resistance is natural, and sometimes even beneficial. It’s easy to label resistance as a roadblock, but it’s a valuable feedback mechanism. When people push back, it often signals genuine concerns, overlooked risks or gaps in understanding. Listening to resistance and understanding its roots can help refine the change process so it’s more inclusive and effective.
Truth: Resistance can provide critical insights to help shape the change in ways that increase its chances of success. Effective change managers take on resistance as part of the journey, not as an enemy to defeat.
Myth 3: “Change Happens Overnight”
Sustainable change takes time, and often a lot of it. While some organisations push for quick transformations, change that lasts doesn’t happen in an instant. There’s a common misconception that once a decision is made or a change is announced, it’s ‘job done.’ But real change takes root gradually, often through trial, adjustment, and ongoing support.
Truth: Successful change is about patience, perseverance, and continuous feedback loops which are needed to make change truly stick.
Myth 4: “Only Leadership Drives Change”
Change is everyone’s responsibility. Leaders play a critical role in setting the vision, but successful change relies on buy-in and action at all levels of an organisation. Frontline employees often have the most direct insights into the practicalities of a change and are essential in making it a reality.
Truth: Effective change requires a collaborative effort. Listening to ideas from employees, and involving them in the process builds ownership and turns a top-down mandate into a shared mission.
Myth 5: “Change Management is Only Needed for Large-Scale Transformations”
Change management is valuable for changes big and small. While large transformations require substantial change management, even small changes can benefit from structured approaches. Whether it’s a new software rollout or a minor process update, guiding people through change helps with smooth transitions and better adoption.
Truth: Change management practices scale to fit the need. Even small adjustments, handled thoughtfully, can significantly impact engagement and effectiveness.
Myth 6: “Once People Are Trained, Change is Complete”
Training is the start, not the finish line. Many organisations assume that once training is complete, the job is done. But training is just the initial step. Implementing change requires follow-up, ongoing support, and often a period of adjustment. This process allows people to apply what they’ve learned and feel confident in their new way of working.
Truth: Change is fully embedded when people are supported beyond training so they can adopt and sustain new behaviours and approaches.
John Dean, CEO at Change Specialists
Contact me, or the wider team at Change Specialists, we are all seasoned Change professionals who are well placed to share our experiences and expertise to support your success.
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