What Resistance in Teams Really Means
I’ve worked with plenty of teams who are going through change and often the conversation starts with the leader wanting to overcome resistance to change.
That always gives me hope. Because resistance is a good sign.
Resistance means people care.
They are engaging with the change. Which, if you ask me, is a great starting point.
In my experience, some of the most resistant team members have turned out to be the most committed, once they’ve had a chance to have their input and process change on their terms.
Common Reasons Behind Team Pushback During Change
Resistance is rarely about defiance. It’s often about loss, confusion, fear, loyalty to the old way. And sometimes it’s about a lack of information because we assume everyone understands the benefits.
This is just a reminder that your job isn’t to squash it – it’s to get curious about it.
So, if you have team members resisting change – even small change – in your team, what if you saw them as your allies and got curious about their resistance? What might their resistance be trying to tell you?
All good things,
Juliet Robinson
Leadership and Change Specialist
How I can help you:
- Leadership feeling a bit squeezy lately? Book a one-on-one leadership session and let’s untangle what is going on for you, and where you need to focus your attention to release the squeeze. BOOK HERE.
- Is it time you and your team got on the same page and working better together? I’ve just wrapped a series of workshops around Australia – and I’d love to see if I can help your team too. GET IN TOUCH.
