Leading Through Change

Leading any team is challenging. During times of instability, it becomes much more difficult.  In higher education, as in any business, positions above and below you change frequently.  Small changes typically don’t stir up much controversy, but changes in key positions or in organizational structure can create uneasy feelings and a tense work atmosphere that distract from the tasks at hand.

When everyone is jockeying for position and trust between leaders and their teams fades, productivity loses momentum.  Naturally, people become more worried about their jobs and less concerned about fruitful work.

We suggest leaders counter this downward spiral by creating a straight-forward, trusting environment within your own team and by prioritizing production.

• Make team meetings a priority.  Report what news you can share to team members, preferably to everyone at the same time. 

• Be honest, but positive.  Don’t editorialize.  Lead with facts.

• Focus on the work.  Praise your team for the good work they do and suggest ideas to move work forward. 

• Be direct.  If you don’t know an answer - admit it.  If you have bad news to share, handle it tactfully; say what you need to say and then move on.

Don’t forget to reinforce your own standing with those to whom you report.

• Manage up.  Prepare for meetings with your supervisor to ask them for what you need.  Show that you’re in control of your responsibilities and working independently to move things forward. 

• Document above and below your position.  Keep track of significant conversations. Don’t expect to remember.

• Anticipate obstacles. Provide evidence to justify your team’s needs.

• Align your goals with those of the institution and emphasize how your team’s work is contributing to the big picture.  

Lead through changes instead of just managing them.  Your team will appreciate your steadfastness, honesty, and vision, and they'll be more productive while changes take place around them.  Your leaders should recognize your efforts to keep things moving forward, and when things settle down, you and your team will be ready for what’s next.