Studies show that change across an organization is hard – in fact an estimated two out of three initiatives fail. But we know that to pursue goals and be successful requires change, sometimes continuous change.

So, why do so many small business change initiatives in pursuit of goals fail?

Barriers to change

Business goals that require change often relate to time, team, or money. Within those broad categories we often chart a pathway forward only to find barriers, some deeply rooted in company culture. In fact, you may not recognize barriers if they’ve been in place for a long time or if they don’t seem to interfere with results.

Whatever they are, you’ll be less successful in affecting change within your small business without first identifying and addressing barriers that stand in the way of progress.

  • Mindset – Management is leading the charge on change and they will undoubtedly wrap their arms around the areas of change. Their mindset is “ready to go!” Staff may be in a different mindset – especially if there isn’t advance communication about the change process.
  • Communication – Who is aware or not aware of the change initiatives? Is there advance communication, helping employees and teams be more ready – even asking them to help?
  • Physical – Anything from the supply chain down to something as small as an inefficient process can stall momentum. Are all the elements in place? Are staff physically able to achieve the end result?
  • Environmental – Will factors like poor lighting, improper ventilation, or lack of bathroom facilities affect your plan?
  • Cultural – Will office politics make implementation uncomfortable? Will staff be resistant to change because they’re comfortable with the current processes/old ways? It can be hard to lead people out of that “that’s how it’s always been done” mindset.

Being involved in the process allows management a different perspective than staff. Likewise, staff may have knowledge of day-to-day processes that management doesn’t see.

Addressing barriers is critical to the success of your change initiative and its implementation. Identifying and addressing the barriers should occur early in the planning process. It’s not always as simple as it sounds. As an insider, it can be difficult for you to see all the moving parts. Getting an outside perspective can shine a light on many barriers before they affect the process. And that’s where David Waymann comes in!

A business coach with personal solutions

As a business coach in the Ann Arbor area, David has helped many Michigan small business owners align their businesses for success. If you’re not happy with your business’s growth, David can help you change course.

David specializes in helping small and medium-sized businesses in Ann Arbor, Washtenaw County, and all SE Michigan plan for the future.

Contact David or call 734-726-5208 today to set up a strategy and review session!